ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs boost and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are many kinds of stimulant medications available each with its own benefits and side effects. Long-acting medications are best for most people because they accumulate in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medication options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can be used to treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to kick in. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but they have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for many years. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to cause serious side effects or addiction. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to reduce the impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants to reduce side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.
Exercise and diet can help in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults, but it's especially important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, reduce impulsive behavior and reduce cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or eliminating any foods.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to deal with their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
untreated adhd in adults -help strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. 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 understand how to better communicate with the child or partner who has ADHD and how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.