ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs increase and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are adhd in adults treatment of stimulant drugs are available, and each has its own advantages and side effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medicines, which build up within the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD treatment options such as methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can treat adults with adhd, though they might take longer to start working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are usually 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 cause addiction or other serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be used on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for everyone however it is particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult with a physician before making any changes to their diet or cutting out any foods.
Read the Full Article , or therapy, can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help techniques like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about a referral to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and advice on managing ADHD at the home, in school or on the job. They can help parents and spouses comprehend how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.