ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine are generally considered first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or side effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and can reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. They improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most popular treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are many brands of stimulant medication each with its own set of side effects and advantages. Most people respond best to long-acting medications, which build up within the body over time. adhd in adults treatment helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels, which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD treatment options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to start working. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be used on a regular basis and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants to lessen adverse effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are usually used only when other medication isn't helpful.
Exercise and diet can help in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume healthy and balanced meals, but people suffering from ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior and food cravings. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. This type of therapy can help them learn how to manage their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about referrals to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can help people find a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can provide support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school, or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses to understand how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.