ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Non-stimulant medicines like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient because of other health problems or side effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and can reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. Different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and side effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting drugs that accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can be used to treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to kick in. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Because they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to cause severe side effects or addiction. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken daily to reduce the impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants to lessen the effects of stimulants. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise may aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for everyone however it is particularly essential for those with ADHD. non medication treatment for adhd adults can help improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy helps people develop strategies for managing their problems and can help them improve their life. 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 to more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should consult their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD could be able help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school, or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses know how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.