ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work more slowly than stimulants and decrease impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine, which improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each has its own benefits and side effects. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for most people because they build up in the system over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD treatment options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to work however, they can aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for years "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse effects or addiction. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants together with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are usually used only when other medication isn't helpful.
Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and reduce food cravings. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be successful at. adhd treatment for adults without medication is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Marital and family therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school, or on the job. They can help parents and spouses better comprehend how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges that come with living with ADHD.