ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.

Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and reduce impulsivity and inattention.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These are the most popular evidence based treatment for adhd in adults for ADHD in both adults and children. There are several kinds of stimulant medications available each with their own side effects and benefits. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medicines, which build up within the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may cause more symptoms as the drug is used up. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD treatment options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.

Non-stimulants

These drugs may take longer to effect their effects, but they can also help treat adult adhd. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD among children and adults. Because they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way that stimulants do, treating Adhd and depression in adults they are less likely to cause severe untreated adhd in adults adverse reactions or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to reduce impulsivity.

Some people with ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants in order to minimize side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are usually used only when other medications aren't effective.

Diet and exercise may help treat adhd treatment for adults medication. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults, but it's especially important for people with adhd treatment for adults uk. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or cutting out all foods.

Counseling

Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their issues and teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from family and marital therapy.

Self-help techniques like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should speak to their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who can treat adhd in adults has experience treating adhd and depression in adults adults with ADHD might be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can assist parents and spouses understand how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to handle the challenges of living with ADHD.