ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and negative side negative effects. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications, which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to take effect however they also help treat adhd in adults. These medications are referred to as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for many years "off-label", to treat ADHD among children and adults. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD have difficulty to take stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the risk of side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications aren't working.
what happens if adhd is left untreated in adults and exercise may aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from psychological counseling or therapy. This type of therapy can help them learn strategies to manage their problems and can help them improve their life. CBT is a type of therapy that adults with ADHD have shown to be successful at. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help techniques such as improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about referrals to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD might be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can assist parents and spouses understand how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.