ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, may be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health issues or adverse reactions. These medications work slower than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own advantages and side effects. Most people respond best to long-acting drugs, which build up in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the medication wears out. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD medication options such as methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to take effect, but they can also help treat adult adhd. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for a long time "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children. internet site are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their adverse effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants in combination 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 typically have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.
Diet and exercise may also help in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. This type of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a type 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. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help techniques, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak to their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD could be able help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses better know how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to handle the challenges of living with ADHD.