ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health problems or adverse effects. These drugs work more slowly than stimulants and decrease impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are Read the Full Article of stimulant medication each with their own side effects and benefits. Long-acting medicines are ideal for the majority of people since they accumulate in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects however they also help treat adult adhd. These drugs are called norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or have serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs can be used regularly and can last up to 24 hours to decrease the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Certain patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to lessen adverse effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet may aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults but it's particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can increase concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or eliminating certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that people with ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help strategies, like increasing sleep routines and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist people in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that are effective for them. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can help parents and spouses understand how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges of living with ADHD.