ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants aren't 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 increase brain neurotransmitters, 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 many types of stimulant medications, each with its own set of side effects and advantages. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people because they build up in the system over time. adhd in adult women treatment helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the medication is used up. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD treatment options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can treat adults with adhd, although they may take longer to kick in. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for many years "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Because they don't impact the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe side effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce the risk of impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants in order to minimize adverse effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.
Exercise and diet may aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume an appropriate diet, however people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be effective. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about getting a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD might be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with their child or partner who has ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.