ADHD Medications For Adults
If you've been diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood, the first treatment option is likely to require medication. Stimulants improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Long-acting formulations are the best choice, as they allow people to take advantage of the medication throughout the day and avoid negative side effects (such as hearing ringing or changes in vision).
Psychotherapy can also help you manage symptoms. Therapy can help you gain new techniques to deal with ADHD, improve your relationships and gain stability at work or in your home life.
Long-acting stimulant formulations
The medications in this class increase attention, focus, and reduce impulsivity through an increase in the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These are key chemicals that regulate the pre-frontal cortex region of the brain, which is often called the "secretary" or "executive functioning" area. This is important because this area determines how you plan, organize and perform. It's how you can prioritize tasks, stay focused and keep your emotions in check.
Stimulants, the most common medication prescribed for ADHD are available in various dosages and forms. The medication your doctor prescribes is based on your symptoms, your health history and other factors. Some of the more common long-acting stimulant formulations include methylphenidate/amphetamine (Concerta), methylphenidate/amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Metabolite CD), methylphenidate/amphetamine/dextroamphetamine/dextromethorphan (Ritalin-LA) and methylphenidate/amphetamine/dextroamphetamine/dextroamphetamine/amiloride extended-release (Adderall XR).
The long-acting stimulants come with different time-action profiles, which allow physicians to choose the drug which is the most appropriate for each patient. For example, if a patient struggles in the morning, a long-acting methylphenidate/amphetamine/dextroamphetamine formulation may be beneficial because it provides an effect for up to 8 hours.
These formulations also have a lower risk of adverse reactions such as sleepiness or stomach upset, than drugs that have a shorter duration of action. They also do not raise blood pressure or heart rate as much as short-acting stimulants which is vital for people with heart issues.
The AMP salts in Adderall can cause a slight increase in blood pressure and heart rate. However, your doctor can monitor your medication to ensure these levels are safe.
Clonidine and Guanfacine are two additional medications that can treat ADHD without stimulating your nervous system. They require longer time to work than stimulants but are less likely to be misused. They are not as effective in boosting attention and focus but can decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. They are available in a variety of dosages and forms that include extended-release tablets as well as capsules. Intuniv is a long-acting clonidine medication that can be utilized by adults. It can also be used in conjunction with other treatments, like behavioral therapy. Be aware that any medication is only a tool. Behavioral therapy is also essential in helping you manage your ADHD.
Guanfacine (clonidine) or Clonidine
Guanfacine, clonidine, and other central alpha-2 receptor antagonists are FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of high blood pressure. They are also employed "off-label" to treat ADHD. They function by stimulating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors both pre- and post-synaptically. The medication blocks sympathetic nerve impulses from the heart and blood vessel to the vasomotor centre and results in a decrease of heart rate and peripheral resistance. It can aid in reducing the primary symptoms of ADHD, including hyperactivity and the tendency to be impulsive. It also helps reduce the tics that are associated with Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders. It can be used as a single medication or in conjunction with stimulants. In a study of preschool-aged ADHD children 78% of those taking stimulants in conjunction with Guanfacine reported improvement in their symptoms.
These medications have a longer half-life compared to stimulants. This means they can stay in the body up to 24 hours. They are less likely to cause sedation and insomnia. They can be taken in tablets or as patches. Patches are a great option for those who do not take their pills or are uncomfortable doing so. It is essential to take these pills exactly according to the prescription. The medication won't be effective when the dosage is too low. If the dose is too high, it can lower your blood pressure too much. This could be harmful for those with low blood pressure or heart disease.
Clonidine and guanfacine are older drugs that were initially created to treat hypertension. Both are approved for adult use and can be used as a stand-alone or in combination with stimulants. They can also be utilized to treat anxiety symptoms that can interfere with concentration in people suffering from ADHD. Clonidine is also used to treat sleep disorders associated with ADHD. It does not affect the appetite which is a benefit for those struggling with weight issues.
Studies of clonidine and guanfacine have proven that both are effective in treating the primary symptoms of ADHD. They can be taken alone or in combination with a stimulant and are less likely to cause adverse effects than other drugs. Clonidine is particularly effective in reducing the severity of tics related to Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders. It is not as effective in reducing the symptoms of inattention that are associated with ADHD, however.
Ritalin
Methylphenidate is commonly referred to as Ritalin, is a stimulant of the central nervous system that can reduce many of the most frequent symptoms of ADHD. It can help improve concentration, reduce fidgeting, and reduce the impulsive behavior. It also improves an inattentive individual's ability of focus. It is often used in conjunction with other treatments, like behavioral therapy. adhd no medication can cause a variety of adverse effects, however they tend to be mild and go away when your body is used to the medication.
Focalin XR capsules are available in two forms: immediate-release tablets, which are small doses that can be taken two or three times daily. You can also take the extended-release capsules one time each day in the morning, and the dose will release throughout the entire day. The extended-release capsules called Focalin XR, are made up of only right-handed methylphenidate molecules, which reduces the side effects as compared to other formulations.
Other methylphenidate medication includes chewable tablets or tablets that are taken twice daily and last approximately four hours. Also the long-acting tablet (Lisdexamfetamine) or solution is available. These are usually given to children and teens who are older than five, and are also available to adults after at least six weeks of treatment with methylphenidate failed to help with symptoms.
All forms of methylphenidate are linked to heart issues in some people, and should not be used by anyone who has any history of heart disease. It may also trigger a rapid heartbeat in some people and affect the circulation of blood through your fingers and feet. It may be a factor in interactions with other medicines, including anticholinergics blood thinners, and certain anesthetics. It is essential to provide your doctor with an exhaustive list of the prescription and non-prescription drugs you take. They can then look for possible interactions. Strattera is a nonstimulant drug is also available for adults with ADHD. It regulates dopamine levels and does not cause the same side effects as stimulant drugs. It takes longer to work than other treatments, however it is thought to be a good choice for adult patients who do not want to take stimulant medication.
Adderall
Adderall is a stimulant drug that boosts the activity in specific brain regions. It aids people in focusing, control their behavior and manage hyperactivity. It may enhance mood by altering the way the brain releases chemicals, such as dopamine and sérotonin. People with ADHD often have lower levels of these chemicals, which contributes to their excessive activity and inability to manage their emotions. This is why certain adults suffering from ADHD aren't responsive to medications.
Adderall when taken as directed is not addictive and does not cause the development of habit. However, there are risks associated with taking Adderall and it is possible to cause side effects that require medical attention. If you have any questions or concerns discuss them with your doctor.
Adderall overdose symptoms include restlessness, muscle twitching and increased heart rate. They can also cause confusion, hallucinations and anxiety. If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention.
It is not recommended to take Adderall with other medications that alter your mood, for example, antidepressants or depression medicines. Combining these medications could increase the risk of serious negative side effects, like seizures or death. This medication is not recommended for children who are under the age of 12.
Stimulant medication can cause trouble sleeping. You can reduce this side-effect by limiting your time in front of screens and caffeine (e.g. TV or video games). You can also take an aid to sleep such as melatonin.
You can also change to a more powerful dosage of the drug, like Adderall extended-release. This will prevent the "rebound" effects that occur in the late afternoon or evening when the medicine wears out. Many adults suffering from ADHD supplement a long-acting dose of the medication using an immediate-release tablet taken in the morning.
Some people who do not have ADHD utilize stimulants such as Adderall to feel more alert or energetic. This can lead to magical beliefs about the medication and its power. Some of these beliefs can cause people to develop an addiction. Additionally the use of Adderall for non-medical reasons can increase the likelihood of a positive drug screening test for amphetamines.