ADHD Medications For Adults
If you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, your first treatment is likely to be medication. The stimulants increase concentration and help manage impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Long-acting formulations are preferred as they allow people to take advantage of the medication throughout the day without adverse effects (such as hearing ringing or changes in vision).
The use of medication can be beneficial however psychotherapy can also help to manage symptoms. Therapy can help you build new skills to cope with ADHD improve relationships and find stability in your work or at home.
Long-acting stimulant formulations
The drugs in this class increase attention, focus and reduce impulsivity via an increase in levels of norepinephrine and dopamine. These are the two most important chemicals that control the pre-frontal cortex area of the brain, which is often called the "secretary" or "executive functioning" area. This is crucial because this region controls how you plan, organize and perform. It helps you organize your tasks, stay on track and maintain your emotions under control.
Stimulants, the most common medication prescribed for ADHD are available in a variety of dosages and forms. Your doctor will prescribe a medication based on your symptoms and medical history. 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).
These long-acting stimulants have different time-action profiles, which allow doctors to select the medication that is most suitable 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.
Additionally, many of these formulations have a lower risk of side effects like insomnia or stomach upset than shorter-acting medications. They also don't increase blood pressure or heart rate more than stimulants with short-acting effects which is crucial for people suffering from heart disease.
The AMP salts found in Adderall may cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure. However, your physician can monitor your medication to ensure that these levels are not harmful.
There are other drugs that treat ADHD without stimulating the nervous system, including the guanfacine drug and clonidine. They take longer to start working than stimulants, but are less likely be misused. They are not as good in enhancing focus and attention however they can help to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. They come in a variety sizes and dosages, including extended-release tablets and capsules. A clonidine medicine that is long-acting, Intuniv, is approved for adults and is able to be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment, such as behavioral therapy. It's important to remember that any medication you take is just a part of the process. Behavioral therapy is also crucial to help you manage your ADHD.
Guanfacine, or clonidine
Guanfacine and Clonidine are central alpha-2 agonists, which are FDA-approved for high blood pressure, but are they are also utilized "off label" to treat ADHD. They operate by stimulating both alpha-2 receptors, pre- and postsynaptically. The medication decreases sympathetic nerve impulses from the blood vessel and the heart to the vasomotor center and results in a decrease of heart rate and peripheral resistence. It can help improve the primary symptoms of ADHD, such as hyperactivity and impulsivity. It can also help reduce the tics that are associated with Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders. It can be used as a stand-alone medication or in conjunction with stimulants. In a study of preschool-aged children with ADHD 78 percent of those who used stimulants alongside guanfacine saw improvement in their symptoms.
These drugs have a longer half-life than stimulants, which means they last in the body for a period of up to 24 hours. They are also less likely to cause sedation or insomnia. They can be taken as a tablet or as patches. The patch is a good alternative for those who forget to take their pills or who don't enjoy taking them by mouth. It is crucial to take these medicines exactly as prescribed. The medication won't be effective if the dosage is too small. If the dose is too high, it can lower your blood pressure too much. This could be risky for people who have low blood pressure or heart disease.
Clonidine and Guanfacine were created in the past to treat hypertension. Both are approved for adults and can be taken as a stand-alone medication or in conjunction with stimulants. They are also sometimes used to reduce anxiety symptoms in patients with ADHD and can cause problems with attention. Clonidine is also used to treat sleep problems associated with ADHD. It doesn't alter appetite, which can be an advantage for those who are struggling with weight issues.
Studies of guanfacine and clonidine have proven that both are effective in treating the main symptoms of ADHD. They can be taken either alone or in combination with a stimulant. Both are less likely than other medications to cause side effects. Clonidine is particularly effective in reducing the severity of tics that are associated with Tourette syndrome and other disorders causing tics. It isn't as effective in reducing the symptoms of inattention that are associated with ADHD however.
adhd and anxiety medication (also known as Ritalin) is a central nerve system stimulant. It can help reduce a number of the most frequent symptoms of ADHD. It can improve concentration, reduce fidgeting, and reduce impulsive behavior. It also improves those who are not able to focus. It is usually prescribed alongside other treatments like behavioral therapy. Ritalin may cause a variety of adverse effects, however they tend to be mild and go away when your body is used to the medication.
It is available as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken two to three times a day) or extended-release capsules known as Focalin XR, which are taken once daily in the morning with the dose being released throughout the day. The extended-release capsules, called Focalin XR, only contain right-handed methylphenidate molecule, which minimizes the risk of side effects as compared to other formulations.
Other methylphenidate medication includes short-acting or chewable tablets which are taken twice a day and last approximately four hours. Additionally the long-acting tablet (Lisdexamfetamine) or solution is available. These are usually prescribed to children and teenagers over the age 5 and adults who haven't had a response to methylphenidate therapy after six weeks.
All types of methylphenidate have been associated with serious heart problems in some people, and should not be taken by anyone who has any history of heart disease. It may also affect the flow of blood through your fingers and toes and cause faster heart rate in some people. It may interact with a variety of other medicines, including anticholinergics blood thinners and some anesthetics. It is crucial to give your doctor a complete list of all prescription and non-prescription medicines you are taking. They can then evaluate potential interactions. Strattera is a nonstimulant drug is also available for people suffering from ADHD. It works by regulating dopamine levels and doesn't cause the same negative side effects as stimulant medications. It may take longer to get the job done, but it is considered a safe alternative for adult patients who do not want to use stimulant drugs.
Adderall
Adderall is an stimulant medication that increases the activity of certain brain areas. It helps people control their behavior and focus, and also manage hyperactivity. It also affects the way the brain releases chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine, which means it can improve mood. These chemicals are often lower in those with ADHD, which can cause excessive activity and inability to manage emotions. This is the reason why certain adults suffering from ADHD aren't responsive to medications.
When taken as directed, Adderall is not considered to be habit-forming and is not a cause of dependence. Adderall is not without risk, and its side effects may require medical attention. Talk to your doctor for any questions or concerns.
Symptoms of Adderall overdose can include restlessness, muscle twitching, increased heart rate, hallucinations, confusion and an increased level of agitation. If you experience these symptoms you should seek medical attention immediately.
Adderall should not be used along with medications that affect mood, such antidepressants and depression medicines. These medications can increase the risk of serious side effects, such as death or seizures. This medication is not recommended to children younger than 12 years of age.
Stimulant medication can cause trouble sleeping. You can try to reduce this side effect by limiting caffeine and screen time (e.g., TV or video games) close to the time you go to bed. You could also try a sleep aid like melatonin.
You may also choose to switch to a longer acting dosage of the drug, like Adderall extended-release. This will reduce the "rebound" effects in the late afternoon or evening when the medicine wears out. Many adults suffering from ADHD take an immediate-release tablet in the morning to complement the medication that has a long-acting effect.
People who do not have ADHD use stimulants like Adderall to feel more alert or energetic. This can result in magical beliefs about the drug and its abilities. Some of these beliefs could even cause addiction. In addition taking Adderall for non-medical reasons can raise the risk of a positive drug test for amphetamines.