ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient because of other health problems or side effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and they reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. untreated adhd in adults are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are many brands of stimulant medication each with its own benefits and side effects. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for most people, as 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 is worn off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects however they also help treat adult adhd. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for a long time. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe side effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to reduce the risk of impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants and 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 typically only used when other medications aren't effective.
Diet and exercise can help treat ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for all adults but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and help them improve their life. CBT is a type of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be effective. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.
Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak to their primary care doctor about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist people in finding a combination of treatment methods 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 the child or partner who has ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.