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ADHD Medications for Adults

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects the relationship between the nervous system and behavior. Because of this, ADHD is classified as a neuro- behavioral disorder. The symptoms of ADHD are impulsivity, inattentiveness and hyperactivity. According to the Cleveland Clinic, ADHD affects 3 to 5 percent of children. At one time, it was thought ADHD symptoms gradually diminished and disappeared towards the end of puberty. In recent years, the medical community discovered that symptoms of ADHD persist into adulthood.

  1. General information

    • According to the National Comorbidity Survey Replication, approximately 4 percent of the adult population has ADHD; however, most adults remain untreated.

      Living with ADHD as an adult can be challenging. It can cause feelings of restlessness in the adult as it does in children. It is hard for the individual with ADHD to relax.

      ADHD can make it difficult for a person to be get to work on time, be organized, prioritize or complete work assignments. Those with this disorder are often distracted by things in their environment and tend to procrastinate. This can make holding a job difficult.

      ADHD can also cause issues with interpersonal relationships. It can cause inattentiveness when someone is speaking. The person with ADHD may be unable to follow through on commitments. Those with this disorder tend to have angry outbursts as they have difficulty controlling their emotions over minor issues.

      ADHD can adversely affect most areas of a person's life. This can contribute to feelings of failure and anxiety. Those left untreated are at risk for developing mental disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders or other illnesses. Fortunately, treatment is available for adults with ADHD.

    Treatment for ADHD

    • Often a combination of psychotherapy and medication is effective. Paradoxically, stimulant medication is highly effective at combating the symptoms of ADHD. Stimulant medication provides a calming effect to the central nervous system of the person with ADHD. Stimulant medications that are commonly used are Ritalin (methylphenidate), Cylert (pemoline), Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) and Dextrostat (dextroamphetamine). Common side effects of these stimulant medications are loss of appetite, weight loss, nausea, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), headache, drowsiness and nervousness.

    Other Medications

    • If the person with ADHD is on other medications or is unable to tolerate stimulant medications, antidepressants, antihypertensives or medications for narcolepsy, the sleeping disorder, are prescribed. Examples of these medications are Wellbutrin (bupropion), Catapress (clonidine) and Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine), respectively. Side effects vary greatly with the different medications.

    Medication Cautions

    • Taking medication always risks involved. Stop taking the prescribed ADHD medication if serious allergic reactions, such as respiratory difficulties, rashes or hives and any swelling of the face, throat or mouth, occur. These symptoms indicate anaphylactic shock, which is potentially life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these allergy signs are present.

      If experiencing adverse side effects from the medication report these to your health care provider. Finding the correct medication to control ADHD symptoms can take time. It is important to work with your physicians and psychologist to achieve the best symptom relief.

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