ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are typically considered 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 are often prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. These enhance concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These are the most popular 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 medications are best for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which can make symptoms 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
There are also non-stimulant medications that can treat adults with adhd, although they may take longer to start working. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to reduce the impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to lessen side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). untreated adhd in adults relationships have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. 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 teach them skills to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about a referral to a specialist. adhd symptoms in adults treatment or therapist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can offer support and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. They can help parents and spouses better comprehend how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.
