ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are typically considered the as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Non-stimulant medicines like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or side effects. adhd treatment adults are slower than stimulants and reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase 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 a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and side negative effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medications, which build up in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the drug wears out. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to work, but they can also help treat adult adhd. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for many years "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or serious adverse effects since they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These drugs can be used on a regular basis and work for up to 24 hours to decrease impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD have difficulty to take stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications 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 adverse effects than stimulants and are only prescribed when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise can help treat ADHD. Everyone should eat an appropriate diet, however people with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help people develop strategies for managing their problems and can teach them how to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help strategies, like improving sleep habits and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak to their primary care provider about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist people in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that are effective for them. They can provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at the home, in school or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses know how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges that come with living with ADHD.