ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are typically considered the first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or adverse effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and can reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each medication has its own benefits and side consequences. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication is used up. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to work, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. Read the Full Article are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but they 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 the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse effects or addiction. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease the impulsivity.
Certain patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants together with a stimulant to reduce the risk of side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.
Exercise and diet can help in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for everyone, but it's especially essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy can be beneficial to adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help people develop strategies for managing their issues and teach them skills to improve their life. CBT is a type of therapy that people with ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies, like improving sleep habits and limiting caffeine intake, can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care doctor about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can provide assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with a child or partner with ADHD and how to cope with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.