Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Adults Medications
Adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is a condition that affects concentration, impulsivity as well as social skills. It is treatable with medication, education, and therapy.
The most frequently used drugs to treat ADHD are stimulants and antidepressants. They target certain chemicals within your brain, namely norepinephrine and dopamine.
Stimulants
There are a variety of medications for adults suffering from adhd. adhd medication side effects are stimulants, whereas others are not stimulants. These drugs increase the brain's levels for dopamine or norepinephrine.
Stimulants are used to increase attention and focus. They are often first-line medication for adults with ADHD. They can be used in conjunction with cognitive behavior therapy, which could help improve a person’s general symptoms and performance.
Combining medications with psychosocial (behavioral) treatments is the best treatment for ADHD. This approach is known as "comprehensive treatment." It can include medications, cognitive behavioral therapy counseling, counseling, behavioral parenting training, school based interventions and other types of psychosocial interventions.
Doctors must try different medicines to determine which are most effective for a particular patient. They usually start with a small dosage and gradually increase the dosage until they reach the desired clinical outcome.
It could take several weeks of trial-and-error to find the correct medicine. Once the right medication is identified, it is prescribed and used on a long-term basis.
Stimulant medications are well-received by the majority of patients. They are typically able to manage their symptoms and resume an active life. However, some patients have side effects, such as fatigue, headaches and irritability. These effects can be managed by adjusting the amount of medicine you take or changing the time when you take it.
Many people with ADHD are comorbid with other mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. In these situations, we first try to treat the most severe issue before addressing other disorders.
The medications that have been proven to be effective in addressing the most prominent symptoms of ADHD are those that increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. They are also referred to as "norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors" or "dopamine receptor agonists".
Dextroamphetamine, Adderall, methylphenidate and Adderall XR are among the most commonly prescribed stimulants to adults who suffer from ADHD. These drugs have been in use for a long time and there is ample research evidence that they are safe and effective in treating the primary symptoms of ADHD.
These stimulants are effective in decreasing ADHD symptoms however, they can also cause side effects. These side effects are often known as the "crash effect" or "rebound effect".
It is essential that adults are aware of the potential adverse effects of stimulants. They can be disruptive and are likely to alter a person's everyday life and relationships with family and friends.
Another thing to consider is the risk of high blood pressure and an accelerated heart rate while taking stimulants. Anyone taking these drugs must have their blood pressure and heart rate monitored by their doctor every day.
It is important to take ADHD medication according to the directions and in moderation is the best way to avoid these side effects. Talk to your doctor immediately in case you are concerned about any of these side effects or any other adverse side effects. They can give you more details about the side effects of the medication they prescribe to your child or you.