ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.

Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These medications are more slowly than stimulants and decrease impulsivity and inattention.

Stimulants

Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These enhance attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in children and adults. Different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and adhd treatment for adults medication each medication has its own advantages and adverse effects. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for the majority of people since 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 range of ADHD evidence based treatment for adhd in adults options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.

Non-stimulants

These medications can take longer to work, but they can also help treat adhd without medication adults adult adhd. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for a long time "off-label", to treat ADHD among children and adults. Because they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to cause serious adverse effects or addiction. These drugs can be used regularly and work for up to 24 hours to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.

Certain patients suffering from ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated 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 balanced diet is essential for all adults but it's particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or cutting out any foods.

Counseling

Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychological treatment for adhd in adults counseling or therapy. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. 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. Marital and family therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.

Self-help techniques, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also aid in reducing adhd treatment For adults medication symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at the home, Adhd Treatment For Adults Medication in school or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses learn how to get treated for adhd in adults to better communicate with a child or partner who has ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.