ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications boost and balance neurotransmitters in the brain.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health problems or adverse effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants, and can reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. Different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own advantages and side negative effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medicines that accumulate within the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the medication gets older. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD treatment options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can help treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to start working. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for a long time "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or 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 decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are usually used only when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet can help in treating ADHD. All adults should eat an appropriate diet, however people suffering from ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and food cravings. adhd treatment adults suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or eliminating all foods.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their issues, and can teach skills to improve their lives. adhd treatment adults is a type of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have shown to be successful at. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep habits and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak to their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can help people find an approach to treatment that are effective for them. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with their child or partner who has ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.