ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are typically considered the as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs boost and balance the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health problems or adverse effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which 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 benefits and side effects. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for the majority of people since they build up in the system over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to take effect however they also help treat adhd in adults. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for a long time. Because they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse reactions or addiction. These medications can be taken on a daily basis and can last up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are only used when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet can be helpful in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for everyone but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior and food cravings. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. This type of therapy helps them learn strategies to manage their problems and can help them improve their life. CBT is a type of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.
adhd symptoms adults treatment -help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about referrals to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding an approach to treatment that works for them. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. They can help parents and spouses comprehend how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.