ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own benefits and adverse negative effects. Most people respond better to long-acting medicines that accumulate in the body over time. This minimizes 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 several ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects however, they can help treat adult adhd. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but they have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to cause serious adverse reactions or addiction. These medications can be taken on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours to decrease impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are typically only used when other medications aren't effective.
Exercise and diet may also help treat ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for everyone, but it's especially essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can be beneficial to adults suffering from ADHD. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can teach them skills to improve their life. CBT is a form of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. visit our website suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about referrals to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help people find the right combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with a child or partner who has ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.