Adhd evidence based treatment for adhd in adults For Adults (Www.Zhzmsp.Com) - Stimulant Medication

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

Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed when stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health problems or side effects. These medications are more slowly than stimulants and decrease the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most popular treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are several brands of stimulant medication, each with its own side effects and benefits. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for the majority of people since they build up in the system over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which may cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of untreated adhd in adults medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).

Non-stimulants

There are also non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for years "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious adverse effects since they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These drugs can be used on a daily basis and work for up to 24 hours to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.

Some people with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to reduce side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are typically only used when other medications aren't effective.

Exercise and diet may also help treat ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor.

Counseling

Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychological counseling or therapy. This type of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be effective. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from family and marital therapy.

Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about getting a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of first line treatment for adhd in adults methods that are effective for them. They can provide support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can help parents and spouses to comprehend how to communicate with a child with adhd in adult women treatment or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.