ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications boost and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Non-stimulant medicines like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient because of other health problems or side effects. These medications are slower than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These enhance concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own advantages and adverse effects. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people because they build up in the system over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which can worsen symptoms as the medication gets older. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD treatment options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to kick in. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however 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 side effects because they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In symptoms of adhd in adults treatment , doctors might prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet can be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from psychological counseling or therapy. This type of therapy can help people develop strategies for managing their issues and teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about referrals to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can help parents and spouses better comprehend how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.