adhd adults medication For Adults - What Types of Medications Are Available?
Adults with ADHD in the UK are treated first by medication. However, they're not the only method of treating the disorder and some people opt for talk therapy instead.
Medicines that raise the levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine inside the brain help in controlling symptoms. These drugs are referred to as stimulants.
Stimulants
Children and adults are most likely to use stimulants to treat ADHD. These medications increase levels of neurotransmitters that aid in focusing, staying calm and stay on task. They also can reduce the hyperactive or impulsive behavior. However, stimulant medications have many adverse effects and can cause dependence. Therefore, it's crucial to discuss these medications with your doctor.
Extended release stimulants (long-acting stimulants) are a viable treatment option for a lot of people with ADHD. They work for 8 to 16 hours, which reduces the risk of having a "rebound effect" where symptoms recur as the drug wears off.
There are many different kinds of stimulants with long-acting effects, and the dosage you choose is dependent on your individual requirements. You might begin with a lower dosage, but you can gradually increase the dose as your body reacts.
A longer-acting formulation can reduce rebound effects and boosts efficacy. They are usually prescribed for patients who have difficulty managing short-acting formulations. They are often used in conjunction other treatments like psychotherapy and behavioral therapy.
Strattera is a stimulant that has a longer acting effect, is approved for adults and children with ADHD. It is also approved to treat people who suffer from depression and anxiety. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor that can help you focus and control your impulses.
It is usually taken as tablets, capsules or capsule, either once or twice daily. It may cause emotional side effects such as depression and agitation. However, these can be easily managed by reducing the dosage or switching to an extended-release formulation.
Guanfacine (also known as Intuniv) is another non-stimulant medication used to treat ADHD in adults. It activates adrenoreceptors inside the brain. It can reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity as well as improve sleep.
A blood pressure medication, also referred to as a selective beta blocker is a combination with stimulant medications to boost your response and help you manage impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken before going to bed, in order to help you get a good night's sleep.
Other non-stimulant medicines for adults suffering from ADHD are antidepressants, which increase the amount of brain chemicals that affect mood and attention. Research suggests that up to 53% of adults with ADHD also have depression.
Because they treat both ADHD and depression, antidepressants are an ideal option for people with ADHD. They are also easier to tolerate for ADHD patients than stimulants.
Your doctor should be notified of any adverse reactions you suffer from while taking these medicines. They may recommend a higher dosage or change to an extended release form.
Certain of these medications could cause a variety of side effects, such as headaches and insomnia. These can be uncomfortable or even dangerous if left untreated.
They can also increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some people and worsen the symptoms of tics and Tourette's. They can also cause liver damage so be sure to speak with your doctor about any health issues.
It is important to inform your doctor if are taking a stimulant or non-stimulant. This will help your doctor determine if the drug is safe to use.