ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and side consequences. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for the majority of people since they accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug is worn off. adhd treatment for adults near me has approved a variety of ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
adhd treatment for older adults -stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can treat adults with adhd, though they might take longer to begin working. 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 both adults and children. Because they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious side effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to reduce the impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications fail.
Exercise and diet can help in treating ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for everyone however it is particularly essential for those with ADHD. adhd treatment for adult women can help increase concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior and food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or eliminating all foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Marital and family therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care doctor about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help people find the right combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with a child or partner with ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.