ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are generally considered first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These medications are slower acting than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most common treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. There are here. of stimulant medications available, each with its own side effects and benefits. Long-acting medications are best for the majority of people since they accumulate in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to work however they also aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be used on a regular basis and can last up to 24 hours in order to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are usually used only when other medication isn't helpful.
Diet and exercise may help treat ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, reduce impulse-driven behavior, and reduce cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or eliminating any food items.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial to people with ADHD. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about getting a referral to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at the home, in school or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses better understand how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.