ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
long-term effects of untreated adhd in adults and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These medications are slower than stimulants and reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are a variety of types of stimulant medications each with their own set of side effects and advantages. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people because they accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the drug is used up. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to take effect, but they can also help treat adult adhd. These medications are known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious side effects because 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 impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants in order to minimize the effects of stimulants. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex side effects than stimulants and are usually used only when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet may also aid in treating ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for everyone, but it's especially crucial for those suffering from ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and reduce food cravings. Before making any changes to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy can be beneficial for people with 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 kind of therapy that adults with ADHD have been proven to be effective. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help techniques such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care provider regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that works for them. They can provide support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with their child or partner with ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.