ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse reactions. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and they reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are many kinds of stimulant medications available, each with its own side effects and benefits. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medications, which build up within the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which could cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects however they also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are called norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for a long time "off-label" to treat ADHD among children and adults. Because they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse effects or addiction. These drugs can be used on a regular basis and work for up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
adhd in adults treatment suffering from ADHD have difficulty to take stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex side effects than stimulants and are usually used only when other medication isn't helpful.
Exercise and diet may also aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat an appropriate diet, however people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or removing certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their issues, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. treatment for add adhd in adults suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about getting a referral to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD could be able assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school or at work. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with a child or partner with ADHD and how to cope with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.