Medication For Inattentive ADHD
Medication is often the primary treatment option for adults and children who suffer from inattention ADHD. It can help improve the ability to focus and reduce impulsivity, but it cannot cure the disorder.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate, (Adderall XR or Ritalin), assist people in staying focused for longer periods. Many prefer long-acting formulations that release medication throughout the day.
Stimulants
If you have a primarily inattention-deficit symptom, medication can help you concentrate and complete your tasks. The use of medication can help to reduce ADHD symptoms in 70% to 90% of children and adults who take them. They reduce distractions, stop people interrupting each other, and decrease forgetfulness and difficulty completing things. They also help reduce depression and anxiety. People who take stimulant medication often have side effects, but they usually don't last long and can be controlled with careful monitoring.
Treatments for inattention ADHD are typically stimulants that work by streamlining signals that are sent to the brain, making people more alert. They are available as liquids, pills, and patches. They are typically taken once each day, either in the morning or early afternoon. Some are extended-release and can last for as long as 16 hours, while others are immediate-release and are intended to be taken when needed.
There are a variety of stimulant drugs however the most commonly used are methyphenidates and amphetamines. I Am Psychiatry can cause blood pressure and heart rate to rise, and are not recommended for children suffering from certain medical ailments. Some people are prone to headaches, irritability and trouble sleeping after taking these drugs. These drugs can also trigger tics. Tics are repetitive movements, like eye blinking and throat clearing. If you have any history of heart problems, your doctor will want to do an EKG test before prescribing these drugs.
While these medications can help improve inattentive ADHD symptoms, they can't solve issues with social skills or organizational abilities. Some studies show that students with ADHD who are taking stimulants have lower GPAs compared to their non-ADHD classmates, even without bad study habits. However, the differences are small. Studies have also shown that when used alongside good habitual study stimulants can greatly improve academic performance.
There are also medications for inattentive ADHD that don't act as stimulants but still help improve attention and focus. These are usually antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin/Zyban (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). They don't affect your heart rate, however they can alter the way certain chemical called neurotransmitters regulate mood as well as behavior.
Many people with inattentive ADHD experiment with different drugs before settling on one that works for them. This is fine, as it takes time to find the ideal treatment. It's normal to have to alter medications in time, based on lifestyle changes and your evolving needs.
If you suffer from inattentive ADHD, your family doctor may refer you to a specialist who can evaluate your condition and provide a prescription for the most appropriate medicine. These specialists can be psychologists, psychiatrists or doctors who specialize in mental health and nursing practitioners, or physician assistants. They can also provide cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps you manage your attention and emotions by teaching you strategies for coping. You can also use self-management methods, like using a planner to keep track of your schedule, taking class notes, and repeating yourself while making plans or creating reminders. A healthy diet and regular exercise can improve your mood and increase your energy.