ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants, and they reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and side consequences. Long-acting medicines are ideal for the majority of people since they build up in the system over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which can worsen symptoms as the medication is used up. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for many years "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or have serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be used on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours to decrease impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD find it difficult to take stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like 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 effective.
Exercise and diet can help in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for everyone, but it's especially important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy, can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. untreated adhd in adults relationships is a type of therapy that adults with ADHD have been proven to be effective. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about referrals to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses to know how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges of living with ADHD.