ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These medications work more slowly than stimulants and decrease the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. They improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications 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 negative side consequences. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medicines that build up in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These drugs may take longer to take effect however they also help treat adult adhd. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for a long time "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or have serious adverse effects since they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be used on a regular basis and can last up to 24 hours to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to help reduce 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 adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or cutting out any foods.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. 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 form of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about a referral to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD may be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. adhd symptoms adults treatment can also help parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with their child or partner who has ADHD and how to cope with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.