ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and side consequences. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for most people because they accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels which can make symptoms 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 help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to kick in. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. Because they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse effects or addiction. These medications can be used regularly and can last up to 24 hours in order to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications don't work.
Diet and exercise can help treat ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. untreated adhd in adults can help increase concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or cutting out any foods.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can teach them how to improve their life. CBT is a type of therapy that adults with ADHD have proven to be effective. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep habits and limiting caffeine intake, can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about referrals to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at the home, in school or on the job. They can help parents and spouses understand how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to manage the challenges of living with ADHD.