ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medicines like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or side effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants and reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each has its own benefits and negative side consequences. Most people respond best to long-acting drugs, which build up within the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which can worsen symptoms as the medication gets older. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD medication options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. how to get treated for adhd in adults 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 serious side effects because they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to reduce impulsivity.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD are unable to take stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to lessen the effects of stimulants. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are only prescribed when other medications fail.
Exercise and diet can help in treating ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This kind 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 for changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about referrals to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can assist parents and spouses understand how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges of living with ADHD.