ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
psychological treatment for adhd in adults and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants, and they reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in children and adults. Different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each comes with its own advantages and side negative effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medications that accumulate within the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD medications that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can be used to treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to kick in. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. Because they don't impact the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to trigger serious side effects or addiction. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants in order to minimize side effects. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are only used when other medications fail.
Exercise and diet may also aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults however it is particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce cravings for food. Before making psychological treatment for adhd in adults to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can help them improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that people with ADHD have proven to be effective. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. first line treatment for adhd in adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about getting 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 advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can assist parents and spouses to know how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.