Medication For Inattentive ADHD
Medication is often the primary treatment option for both children and adults who suffer from inattention ADHD. It can improve the ability to focus and reduce impulsivity, but it doesn't cure the disorder.
Stimulants like methylphenidate (Adderall XR or Ritalin) can assist people in staying focused for longer periods of time. Many prefer the long-acting formulations that release medication throughout the day.
Stimulants
If you have a primarily inattention symptom, medications can help you focus and complete your tasks. Medications can ease ADHD symptoms for 70% to 80% children and adults. They help reduce distractions and fidgeting. They also stop people from interrupting others, and cut down on the tendency to forget and having trouble finishing tasks. They also help to reduce anxiety and depression. There are a variety of side effects for people who take stimulant medications However, they are generally short-lived and manageable by monitoring them closely.
The majority of stimulants are prescribed to treat inattention ADHD. They help by reorganizing the signals sent to your brain in order to increase alertness. Stimulants come in the form of pills, liquids and patches. They are typically taken every day, usually in the early morning or late afternoon. Some are extended-release, meaning they can last up to 16 hours, and others are immediate-release, designed to be taken whenever needed.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are the most common stimulant medicines however there are a variety of them. Children who suffer from certain medical conditions should not take them since they can raise blood pressure and heart rate. Some people experience headaches, irritability and sleeplessness after taking these medications. These medications can also cause tics. medication for adhd are repetitive actions, such as eye blinking and throat clearing. If you have a history of heart problems your doctor will need to perform an EKG test prior to prescribing these drugs.
While these medicines can aid in the treatment of inattention ADHD symptoms, they don't solve issues with social skills or organizational capabilities. Several studies have shown that students with ADHD who take stimulants, even in the absence of poor study habits, achieve lower GPAs. However the differences aren't that significant. Studies have also shown that stimulants when used in conjunction with good study habits, can significantly boost academic performances.
There are also medicines that treat inattention ADHD that don't stimulate the brain, but they do improve focus and attention. These are usually antidepressants, such as Zyban/Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). They don't affect your heart rate, but they do alter the way certain chemical called neurotransmitters regulate mood and behavior.
Many people with inattentive ADHD try out several medications before settling on one that is effective for them. This is okay, as it takes time to find the best treatment. It's normal to need to adjust medications in time, based on lifestyle changes and your evolving needs.
If you have inattentive ADHD, your family doctor can refer you to a specialist who will examine your condition and offer an appropriate prescription for the most appropriate medication. These specialists could be psychologists, psychiatrists, physicians who specialize in mental health and nursing practitioners, or physician assistants. They may also offer cognitive behavior therapy that teaches you how to manage your attention and emotions by teaching you coping techniques. You can also try self-management techniques, such as keeping a planner to manage your schedule, taking notes in classes, and repeating yourself when making plans or reminders. A healthy diet and regular physical activity can improve your mood and energy.