ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These medications boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Non-stimulant medications like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or side effects. These medications are more slowly than stimulants and decrease impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are the most popular treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. There are several brands of stimulant medication each with its own side effects and benefits. doctors that treat adhd in adults respond best to long-acting medicines that build up in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which could cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These drugs may take longer to effect their effects, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse reactions or addiction. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce the impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant 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 have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are only used when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise may also aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults but it's particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care provider about referrals to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD could be able assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school, or on the job. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with their child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.