adhd treatment for adults (online) - Stimulant Medication

Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine are generally considered as the first line best treatment for adhd in adults for adults with ADHD. These drugs regulate and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.

Non-stimulant medicines like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.

Stimulants

Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine, which improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are many brands of stimulant medication, each with its own benefits and side effects. Most people respond better to long-acting medicines, which build up in the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which could cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medications that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.

Non-stimulants

These drugs may take longer to work, but they can also aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. Since they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe adverse effects or addiction. These medications can be used on a regular basis and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.

Certain patients suffering from adhd symptoms and treatment in adults have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to reduce the effects of stimulants. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants, Adhd Treatment For adults and are usually used only when other medications aren't working.

Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat healthy and balanced meals, but people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.

Counseling

Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can be beneficial to people with ADHD. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed for ADHD Treatment For Adults changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Family and marital therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.

Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep routines and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should consult their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding an approach to treatment that works for them. They can offer support and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can assist parents and spouses know how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges that come with living with ADHD.