ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications boost and balance the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient because of other health problems or side effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most common treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own advantages and adverse consequences. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people, as they build up in the system over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options such as methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can treat adults with adhd, though they might take longer to begin working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. Because they don't impact the epinephrine receptors in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse reactions or addiction. These drugs can be used on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants in order to minimize the effects of stimulants. 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 medication isn't helpful.
Exercise and diet may also aid in treating ADHD. All adults should eat an appropriate diet, however people suffering from ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or eliminating any food items.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy, can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
untreated adhd in adults test -help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about referrals to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding an approach to treatment that work for them. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses understand how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.