ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are typically considered the as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications boost and balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed when stimulants are not appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are many kinds of stimulant medications available each with its own benefits and side effects. Long-acting medications are best for the majority of people since they accumulate in the body over time. untreated adhd in female adults helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat adult adhd, but they can take longer to kick in. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for a long time. treatment for adhd in adults are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or have serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be used on a regular basis and work for up to 24 hours to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. 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 only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.
Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or eliminating any foods.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This type of therapy can help them learn strategies to manage their issues and can help them improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Family and marital therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about a referral to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that work for them. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school or at work. They can assist parents and spouses better understand how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.