ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or side effects. 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 concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of kinds of stimulant medications available, each with its own side effects and benefits. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for most people because they build up in the system over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications which can make symptoms worse as the drug is worn off. adhd in adults characterization diagnosis and treatment 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 help treat adult adhd. These medications are known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for a long time. Since they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse effects or addiction. These medications can be used on a regular basis and work for up to 24 hours to decrease impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to reduce side effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications don't work.
Diet and exercise may aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults but it's particularly crucial for those suffering from ADHD. A healthy diet can increase concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or cutting out any food items.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help people develop strategies for managing their issues and can help them improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have proven to be effective. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep habits and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. adhd in adults symptoms and treatment suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can help people find a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. They can help parents and spouses better understand how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.