ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are generally considered as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications boost and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or adverse effects. adhd treatment in adults work slower than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are several kinds of stimulant medications available each with their own benefits and side effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medicines that accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These drugs may take longer to effect their effects however they also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants to reduce adverse effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may help treat ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior and food cravings. Before making any changes to a diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults with ADHD. try this out is designed to change negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. try this out and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak to their primary care doctor about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD can help people find a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can provide assistance and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with the child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.