ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These medications are more slowly than stimulants and decrease the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine. These enhance concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. There are a variety of brands of stimulant medication each with their own benefits and side effects. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication is used up. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. adhd treatment in adults are usually 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. Because they don't impact the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious side effects or addiction. These medications can be taken regularly and last for up to 24 hours to decrease impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to reduce the effects of stimulants. These include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex side effects than stimulants, and are only used when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet may also help treat ADHD. Everyone should consume healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and reduce cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or removing any foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and can teach them skills to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Marital and family therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can provide assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with a child or partner with ADHD and how to cope with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.