ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These medications work more slowly than stimulants and decrease impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. untreated adhd in female adults improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in children and adults. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own benefits and adverse negative effects. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people, as they build up in the system over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication wears out. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options such as methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to start working. These medications are referred to as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for years "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or other serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be used on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to lessen side 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.
Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help techniques, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care providers about a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD may be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. untreated adhd in adults can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with a child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.