ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health issues or adverse reactions. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine. They improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each comes with its own advantages and negative side consequences. Most people respond best to long-acting medicines, which build up within the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which can worsen symptoms as the drug wears out. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to take effect, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or have serious side effects because they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken daily to reduce the risk of impulsivity.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the risk of side effects. untreated adhd in adults include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for everyone but it's particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior and cravings for food. adhd treatment for adults uk suffering from ADHD should consult with a physician before making any changes to their diet or removing all foods.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD. 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 one type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep habits and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak to their primary care doctor about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD may be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can help parents and spouses to know how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.
