ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are generally considered first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs increase and balance the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or side effects. These medications work more slowly than stimulants and decrease the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. They improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most popular treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are several brands of stimulant medication each with its own benefits and side effects. Long-acting medicines are ideal for the majority of people since they build up in the system over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medications such as methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects, but they can also aid in treating adult adhd. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious adverse effects since they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be taken on a regular basis and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants together with a stimulant to reduce the risk of side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are only prescribed when other medications don't work.
Diet and exercise may also help in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults, but it's especially important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and food cravings. Before making doctors who treat adhd in adults to a diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor.
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 teach them how 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. treatment for inattentive adhd in adults is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about referrals to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD may be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can help parents and spouses to understand how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to manage the challenges that come with living with ADHD.