ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs increase and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse reactions. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and they reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These enhance attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are many brands of stimulant medication, each with its own benefits and side effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medications that accumulate within the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication wears out. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD treatment options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are called norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD among children and adults. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or have serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to lessen the effects of stimulants. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are only prescribed when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise may also be helpful in treating ADHD. All adults should eat an appropriate diet, however people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or eliminating any foods.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial to adults suffering from ADHD. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and can teach them how to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. treat adhd without medication adults with ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can offer support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can assist parents and spouses comprehend how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges of living with ADHD.