ADHD Medications For Adults
If you have been diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood, the initial treatment is likely to include medication. The stimulants increase concentration and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Long-acting formulations should be chosen because they provide continuous relief and prevent negative side effects (such ringing in ears or changes in vision).
The use of medication can be beneficial However, psychotherapy can help manage symptoms. Therapy can help you develop new skills to cope with ADHD, improve your relationships, and achieve stability at work or in your personal life.
Long-acting stimulant formulations
The medications in this class enhance attention, focus and reduce impulsivity by an increase in levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These are key chemicals that regulate the prefrontal cortex part of the brain that is commonly known as the "secretary" or "executive functioning" area. This is important, because this area controls your ability to plan, organize and execute. This helps you stay focused, prioritize tasks and keep your emotions in control.
Stimulants, the most common medication prescribed for ADHD, come in different dosages and forms. Your doctor will prescribe the medication based on your health history and symptoms. Some of the more common long-acting stimulant formulations include methylphenidate/amphetamine (Concerta), methylphenidate/amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Metabolite CD), methylphenidate/amphetamine/dextroamphetamine/dextromethorphan (Ritalin-LA) and methylphenidate/amphetamine/dextroamphetamine/dextroamphetamine/amiloride extended-release (Adderall XR).
The differing time-action profiles of these long-acting stimulants allow physicians to select a drug that works best for the individual patient. For example, if a patient struggles in the morning, a long-acting methylphenidate/amphetamine/dextroamphetamine formulation may be beneficial because it provides an effect for up to 8 hours.
In addition, many of these formulations have a reduced risk of side effects such as sleepiness or stomach upsets compared to shorter-acting medicines. They also do not raise heart rate and blood pressure more than stimulants with short-acting effects, which is important for people suffering from heart disease.
One exception to the above are the AMP salts found in Adderall that can increase blood pressure and heart rate somewhat. However, your physician can monitor your medication to ensure these levels remain safe.
Clonidine and guanfacine are two other medications that can treat ADHD without stimulating your nervous system. They take longer to work than stimulants, however they are less likely to be misused. They are not as effective in improving concentration and attention, but they can decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. They are available in a variety sizes and dosages, including extended-release tablets and capsules. A long-acting clonidine medication, Intuniv, is approved for adults and is able to be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment such as behavioral therapy. Remember that any medication is only a tool. Behavioral therapy is likewise essential in helping you manage your ADHD.
Guanfacine (clonidine) or clonidine
Guanfacine, clonidine and other central alpha-2 receptor agonists are FDA-approved drugs for high blood pressure. They are also used "off-label" to treat ADHD. They are able to stimulate alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, both preand post-synaptically. The medication blocks sympathetic nerve impulses from the vasomotor area to the blood vessels and heart, which causes the heart to slow down and peripheral resistance. It can alleviate the main symptoms associated with ADHD like hyperactivity and impulsivity. It can also help reduce the tics associated with Tourette Syndrome and other tic disorders. It can be used as a single drug or in combination with stimulants. In a study on preschool-aged ADHD children 78% of the children taking stimulants along with Guanfacine experienced improvements in their symptoms.
These drugs have a longer half-life than stimulants, meaning they remain in the body for up to 24 hours. They are less likely to cause sedation and insomnia. They are available as tablets, or as a skin patch. Patches are a good choice for those who fail to swallow their pills or have a problem doing so. It is crucial to take these pills exactly according to the prescription. If the dosage is not sufficient the medication will not be efficient. If the dosage is too high, you may experience a significant drop in blood pressure. Heart disease sufferers or those with low blood pressure could be at risk when the dose is too high.
Clonidine and guanfacine are older medications that were originally developed to manage hypertension. Both are approved for adult use and can be taken as a single or together with stimulants. They can also be used to treat anxiety-related symptoms that may hinder attention in patients with ADHD. Clonidine can also be used to treat sleep problems associated with ADHD. It does not affect the appetite, which is a plus for those struggling with weight problems.
Studies on guanfacine and clonidine have proven that both are effective for treating the core symptoms of ADHD. They can be taken either alone or in combination with an stimulant. Both are more likely than other medications to cause side effects. Clonidine is particularly effective in reducing severity of tics that are associated with Tourette syndrome and other tic disorders. It is not as effective in reducing the inattentive symptoms of ADHD however.
Ritalin
Methylphenidate is also known as Ritalin, is a central nervous system stimulant that has the potential to reduce the most common symptoms of ADHD. It can help improve concentration, reduce fidgeting, and decrease impulsive behavior. It also helps people who aren't able to focus. It is often prescribed in conjunction with other treatments, such as behavioral therapy. Ritalin may cause a variety of adverse effects, however they are usually mild and go away as your body adjusts to the medication.
Focalin XR capsules are available in two forms: tablets that release immediately, which are small doses that can be taken two or three times daily. Additionally, you can take extended-release capsules twice each day in the morning. the dose will be released throughout the entire day. The extended-release capsules, called Focalin XR, contain only the right-handed methylphenidate molecule, which reduces the side effects in comparison to other formulations.
Other methylphenidate medications include short-acting or chewable tablets that are taken twice daily and last approximately four hours. Additionally the long-acting tablet (Lisdexamfetamine) or solution is available. These are usually prescribed to children and teenagers older than 5 years old and adults who haven't responded to methylphenidate treatment after six weeks.
All types of methylphenidate have been associated with heart problems that are serious in certain people and should not be taken by anyone with an history of cardiovascular disease. It can also trigger an increase in heart rate in some people and alter blood flow through your feet and hands. It can interact with other medications such as blood thinners or anticholinergics. It is essential to discuss a complete list of all prescription and non-prescription medicines you are taking with your doctor. They can then look for possible interactions. Strattera is a nonstimulant drug, can also be prescribed for people suffering from ADHD. It regulates dopamine levels, and does not cause the same side-effects as stimulant medications. It takes longer to work than other treatments, however it is believed to be a safe option for adult patients who don't wish to use stimulant drugs.
Adderall
Adderall is a stimulant medication that boosts the activity in certain brain areas. It helps people control their behavior and focus, as well as manage hyperactivity. It also affects the way the brain releases chemicals, including serotonin and dopamine, so it can improve mood. People who have ADHD typically have lower levels of these substances, which contributes to their excessive activity and inability to manage their emotions. This is the reason that certain adults with ADHD aren't responsive to medications.
When taken as directed, Adderall is not considered to be a drug that causes dependence and is not a cause of dependence. However, there are risks associated with taking Adderall and it is possible to cause side effects that require medical attention. Consult Learn Additional if you have any concerns or questions.
Symptoms of Adderall overdose can include restlessness, muscle twitching, increased heart rate, hallucinations, confusion and anxiety. Get medical attention right away in the event of these signs:
It is not recommended to take Adderall along with other medications that alter your mood, for example, antidepressants and depression medications. These medications may increase the risk of serious side effects, such as death or seizures. This medication is not recommended to children under 12 years of age.
Stimulant medication can cause trouble sleeping. You can reduce the effects of this by limiting caffeine consumption and screen time (e.g., TV or video games) prior to the time you go to bed. You could also try a sleep aid such as melatonin.
You can also switch to a stronger formulation of the drug such as Adderall extended-release. This will prevent an "rebound" effect in the late afternoon or evening, when the medication has slowed down. Many adults suffering from ADHD supplement a dose of long-acting of the medication with an immediate-release pill that is taken in the morning.
Some people without ADHD use stimulants such as Adderall to feel a boost of mental alertness or energy. This can lead to mystical beliefs about the medication and its power. Some of these beliefs can lead to an addiction. Adderall taken for non-medical uses could increase the chance of having a positive test for amphetamine.