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Stimulants can help regulate levels of chemical messengers that control attention in the brain. They are the first line of treatment in the treatment of ADHD. They aren't thought to be habit-forming, but they can cause negative side effects, including headaches and difficulty sleeping.
Your doctor might also prescribe guanfacine (brand names Tenex and Intuniv) or clonidine (Catapres) to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. These medications are more effective than stimulants.
Stimulants
The most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD are stimulants. They help balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. They are usually the first medications doctors try and can often control symptoms in most people with ADHD. They can cause serious side effects, but they do not solve ADHD. Doctors prescribe various stimulants in different dosages to determine what works best for the individual. The goal is to find a drug that is safe and efficient for long-term use while controlling symptoms with minimal adverse consequences.
The most commonly used stimulant is methylphenidate, which belongs to the category of drugs referred to as central nervous system stimulants. It's sold under many brand names, including Adderall and Ritalin. Methylphenidate increases brain activity areas that control attention and behaviour. It is available as immediate-release (small doses taken two to three times per day) or modified release tablets that permit the medication to enter the bloodstream gradually over a longer period of time. It is a highly effective drug with low rates of dependence and abuse.
Some people with ADHD suffer from other psychiatric issues. In these cases doctors may prefer treating the more severe disorder to see whether it improves ADHD symptoms. Antidepressants may be prescribed to a person who has major depression before stimulants are considered. Similar is the case for anxiety and tic disorders. For instance, a physician might prescribe guanfacine or Clonidine instead of stimulants to a person who suffers from Tourette's or other symptoms of tics. These medicines perform quickly and are less likely than stimulants to cause drowsiness.
Stimulant medicines can affect heart rate and blood pressure. They can also cause adverse effects such as irritability, sleep disturbances, headaches and decreased appetite. They are generally not recommended for children less than 8 years old and should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. They should not be used by those who have a history of or bipolar disorder, substance abuse or an addiction history. Additionally, these medications are not recommended for those who suffer from seizures or strokes.
Most people suffering from ADHD are treated with a combination of treatment options that include psychosocial therapy, medication or other treatment for behavior. Behavioral therapy can teach you skills like organizational techniques, self-talk and anger management in order to help cope with the challenges of living with ADHD. Healthcare professionals can also assist by educating supervisors and co-workers about ADHD and how to effectively work with people with the disorder. They can also offer adjustments at school and at work to help people who suffer from ADHD succeed. In some instances employers are willing to offer flexibility in how certain tasks are assigned or let workers take breaks as needed. They can also offer employees more time and provide more specific explanations of the task. This is especially beneficial if the worker has difficulty understanding complicated instructions or concepts. In such cases employers can provide training to employees to use assistive technologies that can aid them in keeping up with their peers.