ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These medications boost and balance the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and they reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own benefits and adverse effects. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for the majority of people since they build up in the system over time. effects of untreated adhd in adults can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medications that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to take effect however, they can help treat adhd in adults. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for a long time "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Because they don't impact the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious side effects or addiction. These medications work for up 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD find it difficult to take stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications don't work.
Diet and exercise may also help in treating ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for all adults but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or eliminating all foods.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to deal with their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. adult adhd diagnosis and treatment (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help techniques like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care providers about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can offer assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at the home, in school or on the job. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with the child or partner with ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.