ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These medications are slower acting than stimulants and reduce 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 the most popular treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are many brands of stimulant medication, each with its own benefits and side effects. Long-acting medications are best for the majority of people since they accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which can worsen symptoms as the medication wears out. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to start working. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. Because they don't impact the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse reactions or addiction. These medications can be used on a daily basis and can last up to 24 hours in order to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In see more may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the effects of stimulants. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may also help in treating ADHD. see more balanced diet is essential for everyone however it is particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be effective. 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 strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about getting a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD might be able to help people find the right combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can help parents and spouses to know how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to manage the challenges that come with living with ADHD.