ADHD Medication For Adults - What Types of Medications Are Available?
Medications are the first line of treatment in the UK for adults with ADHD. Talk therapy is also an option.
To reduce symptoms, medications that boost brain levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine may be utilized. These medications are known as stimulants.
Stimulants
Adults and children are the most likely to take stimulants for ADHD. These medications increase levels of neurotransmitters, which help you focus, be calm and remain focused. They also help reduce impulsive and hyperactive behavior. Stimulant medications can cause dependence and can have a variety of adverse consequences. Therefore, it's crucial to discuss them with your physician.
Long-acting stimulants (extended release) are a good choice for many people with ADHD. They last between 8 and 16 hours, which reduces the likelihood of the "rebound effect" which is when symptoms return after the drug wears off.
There are many different kinds of stimulants that have long-acting properties, and the dosage you are taking will depend on your particular requirements. You may begin with a lower dosage and gradually increase the dose depending on how your body responds.
Using a longer-acting formulation minimizes the risk of rebound effects and improves the effectiveness of your medication. They are typically prescribed to patients who have difficulties dealing with short-acting formulas. They are frequently used in conjunction other treatments such as psychotherapy and behavioral therapy.
Strattera, a longer-acting stimulant is approved for use by children and adults with ADHD. It is also approved to treat people who suffer from anxiety and depression. It is a selective noradrenaline-receptor inhibitor that can help you focus and control impulses.
It is taken as a capsule or tablet, usually one or twice every day. You can control the symptoms such as agitation and depression by reducing the dose or switching over to an extended-release formulation.
Guanfacine (also known as Intuniv) is another non-stimulant medicine that treats ADHD in adults. It activates adrenoreceptors within the brain. It can decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity, and improve sleep.
A blood pressure medication, also known as a selective beta blocker, can be combined with stimulant medications to increase your reaction and help manage impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken prior sleeping to help to rest and sleep well.
Other non-stimulant medications that are prescribed to adults suffering from ADHD are antidepressants that increase the levels of brain chemicals associated with attention and mood. medications for adhd uk have shown that up to 53% of adults with ADHD also have depression.
Because they treat both ADHD and depression, antidepressants can be an ideal option for people with ADHD. They are also more palatable for ADHD patients than stimulants.
You should inform your doctor about any adverse reactions you experience while taking these medications. They may prescribe a higher dosage or switch to an extended-release version.
Some of these medications can cause a number of side consequences, such as headaches and insomnia. These side effects could be dangerous or uncomfortable when they're not treated.
They can also cause a worsening of tics and Tourette's syndrome, and increase suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people. They can also cause liver damage, so make sure to talk to your doctor about any health issues.
If you are on a stimulant or non-stimulant, be sure to tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking. This will allow your doctor to determine if the medication is safe to use.