ADHD Medication For Adults - What Types of Medications Are Available?
Medical treatments are the primary line of treatment in the UK for adults with ADHD. Talk therapy is also an alternative.
To manage symptoms, drugs that boost brain levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, can be employed. These are known as stimulants.
Stimulants
Children and adults are most likely to use stimulants to treat ADHD. These medications increase levels of neurotransmitters, which allow you to focus, stay calm and remain on task. They also help reduce impulsive and hyperactive behaviors. The stimulant drugs can lead to dependence and may have numerous adverse consequences. It is essential to discuss stimulant medications with your physician.
Long-acting stimulants (extended release) are a great option for a variety of people with ADHD. They can last from 8 to 16 hours, which reduces the likelihood of an "rebound effect" where symptoms recur as the drug wears off.
There are several different types of long-acting stimulants, and the dosage you choose is dependent on your individual needs. You may start with a smaller dose and then increase it gradually depending on how your body reacts to the treatment.
A longer-acting formulation reduces the chance of rebound-related effects and boosts the effectiveness of your medication. They are typically prescribed to those who are struggling to control short-acting prescriptions and are usually utilized in conjunction with other treatments like behavioral therapy or psychotherapy.
adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medication is a long-acting stimulant that is approved for adults and children suffering from ADHD, and for people who have co-existing anxiety or depression. It is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor that can help you control and focus your impulses.
It's taken as a capsule or tablet, typically once or twice every day. You can manage side effects like agitation and depression by reducing the dosage or switching to an extended-release formulation.
Guanfacine is also known as Intuniv, is another non-stimulant drug for adults suffering from ADHD that works by stimulating adrenoreceptors in the brain. It is able to reduce impulsivity as well as hyperactivity, as well as improve sleep.
A blood pressure medication, also known as a selective beta blocker, can be used in conjunction with stimulant medication to boost your reaction and help manage impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken prior bed, to help you get a restful night's sleep.
Antidepressants are a different non-stimulant drug for adults suffering from ADHD. They boost brain chemicals that affect mood and attention. Research suggests that up to 53% of those with ADHD also have depression.
Because they treat both ADHD and depression, antidepressants can be a good option for adults with ADHD. They also tend to be more palatable for those with ADHD to manage than stimulants.
You should tell your doctor about any adverse reactions you experience while taking these medications. They may recommend a higher dose or an extended-release version.
Some medications can cause side effects that can include headaches and insomnia. These side effects could be uncomfortable or dangerous when they're not treated.
They can also increase suicidal ideas or actions in some people , and may also worsen the symptoms of tics and Tourette's. They can also trigger liver problems, so it's essential to inform your doctor about any other health concerns you may have.
You should inform your doctor if you are using a stimulant or non-stimulant. This will help your doctor determine if the drug is safe for you to use.