Medication For Inattentive ADHD
The first treatment option for adults and children who suffer from inattention ADHD. It can help improve the ability to focus and reduce impulsivity, however, it isn't a cure for the disorder.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate (Adderall XR, Ritalin) aid in focusing for longer durations of time. Many people prefer long-acting formulations that release the medication throughout the day.
Stimulants
If you suffer from an primarily inattentive symptom, medication can help you focus and complete your tasks. Medications aid in reducing ADHD symptoms in 70% to 80% of adults and children who use them. They can reduce distractions and fidgeting, stop people from interrupting others and also reduce the tendency to forget and having trouble finishing tasks. They also help to reduce anxiety and depression. The risk of side effects is common among those taking stimulant medication however, they are typically short-lived and can be managed with careful monitoring.
Most commonly, stimulants are prescribed to treat inattentive ADHD. They are effective in reorganizing the messages sent to the brain to increase alertness. They are available as liquids, pills, and patches. They are usually taken once every day, usually in the early morning or late afternoon. Some are extended-release, meaning they last up to 16 hours, while others are immediate-release, designed to be taken whenever required.
There are a variety of stimulant drugs, but the most common are amphetamines and methyphenidates. They can cause heart rate and blood pressure to rise, which is why they're not recommended for children with certain medical conditions. Some people who take them suffer from a loss of appetite, headaches as well as irritability and difficulty sleeping. These medications can also cause tics. Tics are repeated actions, such as eye blinking and throat clearing. Your doctor will conduct an EKG prior to prescribing this medication if you have a heart problem history.
While these medicines can aid in the treatment of inattention ADHD symptoms, they do not solve problems with social skills or organizational capabilities. Some studies show that students with ADHD who are taking stimulants have lower GPAs than their peers with no ADHD, even if they don't have poor study habits. However the differences aren't that significant. Studies have also shown that stimulants when used in conjunction with a healthy study routine, can significantly improve academic performance.
There are also adhd anxiety medication for inattention ADHD that don't act as stimulants, but they do help improve attention and focus. These are usually antidepressants, such as Zyban/Wellbutrin (bupropion) and Effexor (venlafaxine). They don't alter your heart rate, but do alter the way certain chemicals, referred to as neurotransmitters, regulate mood and behavior.
Many people with inattentive ADHD will try several medications before finding the right one for them. This is normal, since it takes time to find the best treatment. It's also normal to need to adjust your medications over time, based on significant changes in your life or when your needs change.
If you're diagnosed with inattention ADHD by your family physician, he or she can refer you to a specialist who can assess your health and prescribe the appropriate treatment. They are usually psychiatrists or psychologists, but they could also be doctors who specialize in psychiatry or nurse practitioners, or physician assistants. They might also provide cognitive behavioral therapy, which can help you manage your attention and emotions by teaching you coping strategies. You can also try self-management techniques including keeping a planner to manage your schedule, writing notes in class, and repeating yourself when you make plans or reminding yourself. In addition, a balanced diet and regular exercise can improve your mood and levels of energy.