ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed when stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health problems or side effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and can reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine. They improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own benefits and side consequences. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medications, which build up within the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD medication options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to start working. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. 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 cause addiction or serious adverse effects since they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These drugs can be used on a regular basis and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant 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 come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise may aid in treating ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for all adults, but it's especially essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can increase concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or removing any food items.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. long-term effects of untreated adhd in adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep habits and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should speak to their primary care doctor regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can assist parents and spouses better understand how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.