ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs increase and balance neurotransmitters in the brain.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own benefits and side consequences. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people because they accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication which can make symptoms worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These drugs may take longer to effect their effects, but they can also help treat adult adhd. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for a long time. Because they don't impact the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse reactions or addiction. adhd symptoms in adults treatment work for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to decrease the impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are typically only used when other medication isn't helpful.
Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly 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 diet or removing certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from psychological counseling or therapy. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and help them improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults with ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep routines and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that works for them. They can offer assistance and advice on managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with a child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.