ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These medications boost and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or side effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and they reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are many types of stimulant medications each with their own side effects and benefits. Long-acting medications are best for most people, as they build up in the system 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 gets older. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat adult adhd, but they can take longer to start working. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. Typically, they are prescribed for 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 affect the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse effects or addiction. These drugs can be used regularly and last for up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due their negative side effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to help reduce side effects. These 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 prescribed when other medications don't work.
adhd symptoms and treatment in adults and diet may aid in treating ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for all adults but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or eliminating any foods.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to deal with their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have proven to be effective. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies, like improving sleep habits and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD could be able help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can offer support and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can also assist parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with the child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.