ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs regulate and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient because of other health issues or side effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and can reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of brands of stimulant medication each with its own set of side effects and advantages. The majority of people respond well to long-acting drugs that accumulate within the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which can cause more symptoms as the drug wears out. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can help treat adult adhd, but they can take longer to start working. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or other serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Certain patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce adverse effects. adhd treatment for adults include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are only prescribed when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet can be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. People with ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or cutting out all foods.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy, can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems 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 suffering from ADHD. treatment for add adhd in adults is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about a referral to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist people in finding an approach to treatment that work for them. They can provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses better comprehend how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.
