ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are generally considered first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs increase and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Non-stimulant medicines like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications are slower than stimulants and can reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of types of stimulant medications each with their own set of side effects and advantages. Most people respond better to long-acting drugs that build up within the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the medication wears out. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to work however they also help treat adult adhd. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but they have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse effects or addiction. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken daily to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Certain patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). adhd treatment in adults have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet may be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume an appropriate diet, however people with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can increase concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults with ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies, like improving sleep habits and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should talk to their primary care doctor about referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can also help parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with their child or partner who has ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.