ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs regulate and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, may be prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and they reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are many kinds of stimulant medications available each with their own set of side effects and advantages. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the drug gets older. 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 medicines that can treat adults with adhd, though they might take longer to begin working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for many years "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be taken regularly and work for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only prescribed when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet may be helpful in treating ADHD. All adults should eat healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult with a physician before making any changes to their diet or cutting out all foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. adult adhd diagnostic assessment and treatment of therapy helps them learn strategies to manage their problems and can teach them how to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak with their primary care provider about getting a referral to a specialist. 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 offer support and advice for managing ADHD at the home, in school or on the job. They can help parents and spouses to understand how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.