It's The Complete Guide To ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication
ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine are generally considered as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs boost and balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants are not appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or side effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. They improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are many brands of stimulant medication each with their own set of side effects and advantages. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medicines, which 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 a variety of ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are called norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for a long time "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 daily to decrease the impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken in conjunction with stimulants to help reduce side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). non medication treatment for adhd adults can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are only prescribed when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise may also help in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should speak to their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can help people find an approach to treatment that works for them. They can provide support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with the child or partner who has ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.