adhd treatment adults For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs increase and balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or side effects. These medications are slower than stimulants and can reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own benefits and adverse effects. Long-acting medications are best for most people, as they build up in the system over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications, which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These drugs may take longer to take effect however, they can aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are referred to as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be used regularly and work for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants in order to minimize the effects of stimulants. 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 prescribed when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet can 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 improve concentration and decrease impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy helps people develop strategies for managing their problems and can help them improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. adhd treatment for adults and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep routines and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should talk to their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help people find the right combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can assist parents and spouses to understand how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.