ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs increase and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Nonstimulant medications such as antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or side effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants, and they reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. They improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own advantages and adverse consequences. Most people respond better to long-acting medications that accumulate within the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug wears 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 treat adults with adhd, though they might take longer to kick in. These medications are known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants in order to minimize the effects of stimulants. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for all adults, but it's especially essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, reduce impulsive behavior and reduce cravings for food. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or eliminating any foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. 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 adults with ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Marital and family therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
effects of untreated adhd in adults -help techniques, such as improving sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak to their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD could be able assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with a child or partner who suffers from ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.