ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or side effects. treatment for adhd in adults work slower than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. These enhance attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are many kinds of stimulant medications available, each with its own set of side effects and advantages. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medicines that build up in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications, which can make symptoms worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. 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 many years "off-label" to treat ADHD among children and adults. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or have serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These drugs can be used regularly and can last up to 24 hours to reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due 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) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex side effects than stimulants and are usually used only when other medication isn't helpful.
Diet and exercise may also be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume an appropriate diet, however people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from psychological counseling or therapy. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to manage their issues, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can help people find a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can provide 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.