ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These medications boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or side effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of types of stimulant medications, each with its own set of side effects and advantages. The majority of people respond well to long-acting drugs that build up in the body over time. adhd treatment for older adults helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which may cause more symptoms as the drug wears out. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can help treat adult adhd, but they can take longer to start working. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but 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 have serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs can be used regularly and last for up to 24 hours to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are only prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may also aid in treating ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for everyone however it is particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and can help them improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help techniques like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about getting a referral to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. They can help parents and spouses better know how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.