ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These medications boost and balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health problems or side effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and can reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine. They improve concentration and reduce 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 benefits and side effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medicines, which build up within the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which can cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. These drugs are called norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for a long time. Since they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse reactions or addiction. These medications can be taken on a daily basis and can last up to 24 hours to reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their adverse effects. In these cases, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are usually used only when other medication isn't helpful.
Exercise and diet can be helpful in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for everyone, but it's especially essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have shown to be successful at. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep habits and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. adult adhd diagnostic assessment and treatment suffering from ADHD should consult their primary care doctor regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can help people find a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can provide support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with the child or partner who suffers from ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.