ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These medications boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Non-stimulant medications like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants, and they reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each comes with its own advantages and negative side effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medicines, which build up within the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the drug is used up. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to take effect, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. internet site are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be taken regularly and work for up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants and are typically only used when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet may 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 improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior and food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or eliminating all foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn how to deal with their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Marital and family therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help techniques, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school, or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses comprehend how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.
