ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

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

Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most common treatment for untreated adhd in adults test for both adults and children. There are a variety of brands of stimulant medication each with its own side effects and benefits. Most people respond better to long-acting medicines that build up in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which can worsen symptoms as the drug wears out. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.

Non-stimulants

These medications can take longer to effect their effects, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but they have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to cause severe adverse effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the impulsivity.

Some patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications fail.

Diet and exercise may also help in treating Adhd Treatment For Adults Medication. Everyone should eat healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or removing any foods.

Counseling

Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their problems and teach them how to get treated for adhd in adults to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns into more 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 help reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should consult their primary care doctor about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who can treat adhd in adults has experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can help parents and spouses comprehend how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.