ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs increase and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
adhd in adult women treatment as atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or adverse effects. These medications work more slowly than stimulants and decrease the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own advantages and negative side effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medicines that accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication gets older. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD medications that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects, but they can also aid in treating adult adhd. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs can be used on a daily basis and work for up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Learn Alot more suffering from ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their negative side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to lessen side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise may also be helpful in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. People with ADHD should consult with a physician before making any changes to their diet or cutting out any food items.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn strategies to manage their problems and can help them improve their lives. non medication treatment for adhd adults (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should consult their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can help people find the right combination of treatment strategies that work for them. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can help parents and spouses better understand how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.