ADHD Medication For Adults - What Types of Medications Are Available?
Medications are the first line of treatment in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD. But, they're not the only option for treating the disorder. Some people prefer to use talk therapy instead.
To control symptoms, medications that boost brain levels of the neurotransmitter neopinephrine could be employed. These drugs are referred to as stimulants.
Stimulants
Adults and children are the most likely to be using stimulants to treat ADHD. They boost the neurotransmitters levels, which help you remain calm, focused, and on track. They also reduce impulsive and hyperactive behavior. Stimulant medication can cause dependence and may have numerous side effects. Therefore, it's crucial to discuss these medications with your doctor.
Extended release stimulants (long-acting stimulants) are a viable treatment option for many people with ADHD. They can last from 8 to 16 hours, reducing the chance of experiencing the "rebound effect" where symptoms recur as the drug wears off.
There are many types of long-acting stimulants. The dosage you choose to take will depend on the needs of your body. You might start with a lower dose and gradually increase the dosage as your body reacts.
The longer-acting formulation decreases the chance of rebound effects and enhances the effectiveness of your medication. They are usually prescribed to patients who have difficulties managing short-acting medications. They are often used in conjunction other treatments such as psychotherapy and behavioral therapy.
Strattera is a stimulant that has a longer acting effect is approved for both adults and children with ADHD. It is also approved to treat people who suffer from depression and anxiety. It is a selective noradrenaline receptor inhibitor that helps you focus and control impulses.
It is typically taken as a capsule, tablet or capsule every day or twice daily. You can control the symptoms such as agitation and depression by reducing the dosage or switching over to an extended-release formulation.
Guanfacine (also called Intuniv) is another non-stimulant medication that treats ADHD in adults. It stimulates adrenoreceptors in the brain. It can improve sleep quality and lower impulsivity.
A blood pressure medication, also known as a selective beta-blocker, is often used in conjunction with stimulant medicines to boost the effectiveness of the medication and assist you in controlling your impulsive behavior and hyperactivity. To ensure that you get restful and sound sleep you can take it before bed.
Other non-stimulant medicines for adults suffering from ADHD are antidepressants that increase the amount of brain chemicals that are involved in mood and attention. Studies show that as high as 53% of adults suffering from ADHD also suffer from depression.
Because they treat both ADHD and depression, antidepressants are an excellent choice for adults with ADHD. They also tend to be easier for people with ADHD to tolerate than stimulants.
Your doctor should be notified of any side effects that you experience while taking these drugs. They can prescribe a higher dose or switch to an extended release form.
The adverse effects of some medications may include insomnia and headaches. They can be uncomfortable or even dangerous if not treated.
iampsychiatry can also cause increased suicidal thoughts or actions in certain individuals and cause the symptoms of Tourette's syndrome and tics. They can also cause liver issues, so it's crucial to inform your doctor about any other health concerns you might have.
If you are taking any stimulant or non-stimulant be sure to inform your doctor about any medications and supplements you're taking. This will help your doctor determine if the medication is safe to use.