ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These medications boost and balance the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are several brands of stimulant medication each with its own benefits and side effects. Most people respond better to long-acting drugs that accumulate in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels, which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD treatment options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to take effect however, they can help treat adult adhd. These medications are referred to as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They 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 trigger addiction or serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to reduce the impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. doctors that treat adhd in adults 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 used only when other medications fail.
Exercise and diet may be helpful in treating ADHD. All adults should eat healthy and balanced meals, but people with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. Before making any changes to a person's diet or eliminating certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can help them improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have shown to be successful at. untreated adhd in adults test is designed to change negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should consult their primary care provider regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can help people find the right combination of treatment strategies that works for them. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. They can also help parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with their child or partner who has ADHD and how to cope with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.