ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
non medication treatment for adhd adults -stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or side effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants, and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine, which improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are non medication treatment for adhd adults of stimulant medication each with their own benefits and side effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medications that build up within the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels which can make symptoms worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can be used to treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to start working. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for a long time. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe adverse effects or addiction. These medications can be taken regularly and can last up to 24 hours to decrease impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD are unable to take stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to reduce the effects of stimulants. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may also aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, reduce impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. Before making any changes to a diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy, can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Marital and family therapy can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.
Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about referrals to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can help people find the right combination of treatment strategies that are effective for them. They can provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can also assist parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with a child or partner with ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.