ADHD Medication For Adults - What Types of Medications Are Available?
Medications are the first line of treatment in the UK for adults with ADHD. However, they aren't the only treatment option for the disorder and some people opt for talk therapy instead.
To treat symptoms, medicines that increase brain levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter, can be employed. These medications are known as stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used type of ADHD medication for children and adults. These medications increase levels of neurotransmitters which helps you remain calm, focused, and on track. They also help reduce hyperactive or impulsive behavior. However, stimulant medication can cause numerous side effects and may lead to dependence. Therefore, it is important to discuss them with your physician.
Extended release stimulants (long-acting stimulants) are a successful treatment option for people with ADHD. They can last from 8 to 16 hours, reducing the possibility of a "rebound effect" where symptoms recur as the drug wears off.
There are a variety of long-acting stimulants and the dosage you are taking is dependent on your individual needs. It is possible to begin with a lower dosage and gradually increase the dosage as your body responds.
A longer-acting formulation can reduce rebound effects and boosts efficacy. They are typically prescribed to patients who have difficulties managing short-acting formulations. They are often used in conjunction other treatments like psychotherapy and behavioral therapy.
Strattera is a long-acting stimulant that is approved for both adults and children suffering from ADHD as well as for those with co-existing anxiety or depression. prescribe medications is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor and can assist you in controlling your impulses.
It is usually taken as a capsule, tablet or capsule at least twice daily. It can cause some emotional reactions, like agitation and depression, but these can be easily managed by reducing the dosage or switching to an extended-release formula.
Guanfacine, which is marketed as Intuniv, is a non-stimulant medicine for adults with ADHD that works by stimulating the brain's adrenoreceptors. It can help reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity, and improve sleep.
A blood pressure medication, also known as a selective beta blocker, is a combination with stimulant drugs to increase your response and help you deal with impulsive behavior and hyperactivity. It can be taken prior to sleeping to help get a restful night's sleep.
Antidepressants are another medication that is not stimulant for adults with ADHD. These increase brain chemicals that affect mood and attention. Studies have shown that ADHD patients may also suffer from depression.
Antidepressants are an excellent choice for adults who suffer from both ADHD and depression, as they treat the symptoms of both conditions. They are also more easy for people with ADHD to tolerate than stimulants.
You should tell your doctor about any adverse reactions you encounter while taking these medicines. They may recommend a higher dose or an extended-release version.
Some of these medications can cause a variety of adverse consequences, such as headaches and insomnia. They can be uncomfortable or even dangerous if not treated.
They can also increase suicidal thoughts or behaviors in some people and worsen the symptoms of tics and Tourette's. They can also cause liver damage, therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor regarding any health concerns.
It is important to inform your doctor that you are taking a stimulant or non-stimulant. This will allow your doctor to determine if the drug is safe for you to use.