ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs boost and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient because of other health issues or side effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are several kinds of stimulant medications available each with its own benefits and side effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medications that accumulate within the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which may cause more symptoms as the drug wears out. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medications that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to take effect however they also help treat adhd in adults. These medications are known 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 in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce the risk of impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. untreated adhd in adults depression 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 used only when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet may also aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for everyone, but it's especially crucial for those suffering from ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn how to deal with their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have shown to be successful at. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep habits and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care provider about a referral to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can assist parents and spouses know how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges of living with ADHD.