(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/top-doctors-logo.png)Stimulants help adjust levels of chemical messengers in the brain, which control attention. They are considered to be the first line of treatment for ADHD. Although they're not habit-forming, they can cause adverse effects like headaches and sleep problems.
(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/iampsychiatry-logo-wide.png)Your doctor may also prescribe Guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or Clonidine (Catapres) to reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity. These drugs have a longer acting than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. They balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These are often the first medications doctors prescribe to reduce symptoms for the majority of people suffering from ADHD. They can cause serious side negative effects, but they can't cure ADHD. Doctors typically prescribe various stimulants and doses to find the best medication for inattentive adhd combination for each person. The aim is to find a drug that is safe and efficient over the long term, while reducing symptoms with minimal side effects.
It's sold under numerous brand names including Ritalin and Adderall. It's sold under many brands, including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate helps to increase activity in parts of the brain that control attention and behavior. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) or modified-release tablets that allow the medicine to be released into bloodstream over a longer amount of time. It is a highly effective drug that has low rates of addiction and misuse.
Some people who suffer from ADHD may also suffer from other psychiatric disorders. In these cases, doctors might decide to treat the more severe disorder first and see if that improves ADHD symptoms. For instance, a patient with major depression may be offered antidepressants before trying stimulants. The same is true for anxiety disorders and tic disorders. A doctor can prescribe guanfacine or clonidine in lieu of stimulants to a patient who has Tourette's Syndrome or other symptoms of tics. These drugs are less likely to cause drowsiness or depression and are able to work quickly to ease the symptoms of tics.
Stimulants can affect the heart rate and blood pressure. They also can cause side effects such as headaches and irritability. They are not recommended for children less than 8 years and shouldn't be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. They should not be used by people with a history or substance abuse, bipolar disorder or a history of addiction. In addition, these medications are not recommended for people who suffer from seizures or strokes.
Most people suffering from ADHD have a treatment plan that includes medication and psychosocial therapy as well as other treatments. Behavioral therapy can help teach skills such as self-talk, organizational techniques and anger management to help with the challenges of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also assist by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to effectively work with people suffering from the disorder. They can also make adjustments at work and in school to help those with ADHD to achieve their goals. In some instances, employers are willing to provide flexibility in the way certain tasks are assigned or allow employees take breaks as they need. They can also provide more in-depth explanations of assignments and give employees more time to complete them. This can be particularly helpful for those who have difficulty understanding complicated instructions or concepts. In such cases employers can offer to help employees learn to use assistive technology that will assist them in keeping pace with their peers.