ADHD Medication For Adults - What Types of Medications Are Available?
Medicines are the first line of treatment in the UK for adults with ADHD. Talk therapy is another alternative.
The use of medicines that increase the levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine inside the brain help in controlling symptoms. These medications are known as stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used kind of ADHD treatment for children and adults. They boost the neurotransmitters levels that help you stay focused, calm, and on task. They also help reduce impulsive and hyperactive behaviors. Stimulant medication can cause dependence and cause a myriad of side consequences. Therefore, it's crucial to discuss these medications with your physician.
Extended release stimulants (long-acting stimulants) are a highly effective treatment option for a lot of people with ADHD. They can be used for up to 16 hours. This lowers the risk of symptoms returning once the drug wears off.
There are several different types of stimulants that have long-acting properties, and the dosage you are taking will depend on your needs. It is possible to start with a smaller dose and gradually increase it as you see how your body reacts to the treatment.
A formulation with a longer duration of action reduces rebound effects and enhances effectiveness. They're usually prescribed to patients who are unable to manage short-acting medications and are frequently used in conjunction with other treatments like behavioral therapy and/or psychotherapy.
Strattera is a more prolonged-acting stimulant that is approved for adults and children with ADHD as well as for those who suffer from anxiety and depression. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor that can assist you in controlling your impulses.
It is usually taken in tablets, capsules or capsule at least twice daily. You can manage side effects such as depression and agitation by reducing the dose or switching over to an extended-release formulation.
Guanfacine (also known as Intuniv) is another non-stimulant medication used to treat ADHD in adults. It activates adrenoreceptors inside the brain. It can improve sleep quality and lower the risk of impulsivity.
A blood pressure medication, known as a selective beta-blocker can be used with stimulant medications to enhance your response to the drug and help you better control your hyperactivity and impulsive symptoms. add medication uk is usually taken prior to the bed to help get a good night's rest.
Other non-stimulant medications that are prescribed to adults with ADHD are antidepressants that raise the level of brain chemicals that are involved in mood and attention. Studies have shown that up to 53% of adults with ADHD also suffer from depression.
Because they treat both ADHD and depression, antidepressants are an ideal option for people with ADHD. They are also more palatable for those with ADHD to tolerate than stimulants.
You should tell your doctor about any side effects you experience while taking these medications. They can prescribe a greater dosage or switch to an extended-release formulation.
Some medications can cause side effects that can include insomnia and headaches. These side effects could be dangerous or uncomfortable when they're not treated.
They can also make tics worse and Tourette's syndrome, and increase suicidal thoughts and actions in some people. They can also trigger liver problems, which is why it's essential to inform your doctor about any other health concerns you may have.
If you're on an anti-stimulant or a stimulant, be sure to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking. This will enable your doctor to determine if the drug is safe to use.