Medication For Inattentive ADHD
The first treatment option for both children and adults who suffer from inattention ADHD. It can improve the ability to focus and reduce impulsivity, but it is not a cure for the disorder.
Stimulants like methylphenidate (Adderall XR or Ritalin) can aid in staying focused for longer durations. Many prefer long-acting formulations that release the medications throughout the day.
Stimulants
If you suffer from an primarily inattentive symptom, medication can help you stay focused and complete your tasks. Medications help to reduce ADHD symptoms in 70 to 80percent of adults and children who are taking them. They reduce distractions, stop people from interrupting each other, and help reduce the likelihood of forgetting and having trouble completing tasks. They also aid in reducing anxiety and depression. The risk of side effects is common among those taking stimulant medication, but they are usually temporary and can be controlled by monitoring them closely.
Most commonly, stimulants are used to treat inattentive ADHD. They help by reorganizing the signals sent to the brain to increase alertness. They are available as pills, liquids, or patches. They are typically taken once each day, either in the morning or early afternoon. Some are extended-release, meaning that they can last up to 16 hours, and some are immediate-release and designed to be taken whenever needed.
Amphetamines and methylphenidates are among the most common stimulant medicines, though there are many types. They can cause blood pressure and heart rate to increase, so they're not recommended for children with certain medical ailments. Some people are prone to headaches, irritability and difficulty sleeping after taking these drugs. These medications can also cause tics. Tics are repeated actions, such as eye blinking and throat clearing. If you have any history of heart problems, your doctor will want to conduct an EKG test before prescribing these medications.
While adhd stimulant medication can help improve the inattention of ADHD symptoms, they do not solve problems with social skills or organizational capabilities. Several studies have shown that students with ADHD who take stimulants, even in the absence of bad habits in school, have lower GPAs. However, the differences are small. Other studies have found that stimulants when used in conjunction with good study habits, can dramatically improve academic performance.
There are also medicines for inattention ADHD that don't act as stimulants, but they do aid in improving attention and focus. These are typically antidepressants such as Zyban/Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). They don't affect your heart rate, but they do change how certain chemicals, referred to as neurotransmitters, regulate moods and behavior.
Many people suffering from inattention ADHD experiment with different medications before finding the one that works for them. It takes time to find the most effective treatment. It's normal for you to alter your medication over time based on life changes and the needs of your family.
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 are typically psychologists or psychiatrists, but they can also be doctors who specialize in psychiatry, nurse practitioner or physician assistants. They can also provide cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps you learn to manage your attention and emotions by teaching you strategies for coping. You may also try self-management strategies, such as keeping a planner for organizing your schedule, writing notes in class, and repeating your thoughts when you make plans or reminding yourself. A healthy diet and regular physical activity can boost your mood and boost your energy levels.