ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs increase and balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health problems or adverse effects. These medications work more slowly than stimulants and decrease impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and adverse negative effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting drugs that build up within the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the medication is used up. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD treatment options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to kick in. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but they have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or other serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to reduce the risk of impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their adverse effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the risk of side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise may aid in treating ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. People with ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or cutting out all foods.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy helps them learn strategies to manage their issues and help them improve their life. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should talk to their primary care doctor about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist people in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that works for them. psychological treatment for adhd in adults can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also assist parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with a child or partner who suffers from ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.