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 boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient because of other health issues or side effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are the most popular treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and negative side consequences. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people, as they build up in the system over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to work however they also aid in treating adult adhd. These drugs are also known 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 adults and children. Because they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse effects or addiction. adhd treatment adults of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease the impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In Read the Full Article , doctors might prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants in order to minimize side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are typically only used when other medications aren't effective.
Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and food cravings. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can teach them how to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Family and marital therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about referrals to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that works for them. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can also assist parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with the child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.