ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications boost and balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work more slowly than stimulants and decrease the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These enhance attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most common treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own advantages and adverse effects. Most people respond better to long-acting drugs, which build up in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These drugs may take longer to work however, they can help treat adult adhd. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for a long time. Because they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse reactions or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD find it difficult to take stimulants due to their side effects. In untreated adhd in female adults , doctors might prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce adverse effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may also help in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for all adults, but it's especially important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, reduce impulse-driven behavior, and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn how to deal with their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults with ADHD can 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. Individuals suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about a referral to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can help people find the right combination of treatment strategies that works for them. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can help parents and spouses understand how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.