Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Adults Medications
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults is a common disorder that causes problems with impulsivity, concentration, and social skills. It is treated with medication, education, and therapy.
adhd anxiety medication as stimulants are the most commonly used medications used to treat ADHD. They target certain chemicals in the brain, which are known as norepinephrine and dopamine.
Stimulants
Treatments for adults suffering from adhd are available in a variety of forms. Certain are stimulants while others are non-stimulant medicines that increase the levels of dopamine or norepinephrine in the brain.
Stimulants are used to improve attention and focus. They are typically the first-line medication for adults with ADHD. They can be combined with cognitive behavior therapy, which may help improve a person’s overall functioning and symptoms.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is the combination of medication and psychosocial (behavioral) treatments. This is known as "comprehensive therapy." It can include medication, cognitive behavior therapy counseling, counseling, behavioral parent training, school based interventions, and various other types of psychosocial interventions.
Doctors need to test different medications to determine which are most effective for the particular patient. They often start with a small dose and increase it gradually until they attain the desired clinical result.
It can take several weeks of trial and error to discover the correct medicine. Once the right medicine is discovered, it can be prescribed and used on a long-term basis.
Most patients respond very well to stimulant medicines. They are typically able to control their symptoms and resume an active lifestyle. However, some patients do have side effects, such as fatigue, headaches and irritability. These side effects can be managed by altering the dosage or the time you take the medication.
Many ADHD patients have other mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. In these instances, we first try to deal with the most serious problem before addressing the other issues.
The medications that have been proven to be effective in addressing the main symptoms of ADHD are those that increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain. They are known as "norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors" and "dopamine agonists."
The most frequently used stimulants for people with ADHD are dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, Adderall), the methylphenidate (Ritalin) amphetamine salts (Adderall XR). These drugs have been in use for a long time and have proved safe and effective in treating the main symptoms of ADHD.
Although these stimulants have been proven to be effective in reducing fundamental symptoms of ADHD however, they can trigger numerous adverse side effects. These side effects are usually described as the "crash" or the "rebound effect."
It is very important for adults to be aware they will likely suffer from these negative side effects associated with certain stimulants. They can be disruptive and are likely to alter a person's everyday life and relationships with family and friends.
Another concern is the risk of high blood pressure and a high heart rate when taking stimulants. People who are taking these medications must keep their blood pressure and heart rate monitored by their physician each day.
It is important to take ADHD medication as prescribed and in moderation is the best method to avoid these side effects. If you are worried about these or other side effects, talk to your physician immediately. They will provide you with more details about the side effects of the medication they prescribe for your child or for you.