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 regulate and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or side effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine, which improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own advantages and negative side negative effects. Long-acting medications are best for most people because they accumulate in the body over time. Read the Full Article reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects, but they can also aid in treating adult adhd. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious adverse effects since they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease the impulsivity.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due their adverse effects. In adhd treatment in adults prescribe antidepressants together with a stimulant to reduce the risk of side effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet can aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for all adults but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn strategies to manage their issues and help them improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that adults with ADHD have proven to be effective. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help strategies, like increasing sleep routines and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should talk to their primary care provider regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can provide assistance and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can assist parents and spouses better know how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.