ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are generally considered as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These medications are more slowly than stimulants and decrease the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of types of stimulant medications each with their own set of side effects and advantages. Most people respond best to long-acting medications that accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication is used up. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can help treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to kick in. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for a long time "off-label", to treat ADHD in adults and children. Because they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe side effects or addiction. These medications can be taken on a daily basis and work for up to 24 hours to decrease impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
adhd treatment for young adults with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to lessen the effects of. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only prescribed when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise can help treat ADHD. effects of untreated adhd in adults should eat an appropriate diet, however people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior and cravings for food. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or removing any foods.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial to adults suffering from ADHD. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.
Self-help techniques such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. effects of untreated adhd in adults suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care provider about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist patients in finding an approach to treatment that are effective for them. They can provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can also assist parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with the child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.