ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These enhance concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. There are several kinds of stimulant medications available each with its own set of side effects and advantages. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for the majority of people since they accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to effect their effects, but they can also aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically 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 affect the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be used on a regular basis and work for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD have difficulty to take stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to lessen the effects of stimulants. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are usually only prescribed when other medication isn't helpful.
Diet and exercise may also help in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and food cravings. Before making any changes to a diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy helps people develop strategies for managing their issues and can teach them skills 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. adhd treatment for adults medication is designed to change negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help techniques like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should consult their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist patients in finding an approach to treatment that are effective for them. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can assist parents and spouses understand how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to manage the challenges of living with ADHD.