ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
click now and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and can reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of types of stimulant medications each with its own benefits and side effects. Long-acting drugs are the best choice 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 several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
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 norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or other serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken in conjunction with stimulants to help reduce side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants and are usually used only when other medications aren't effective.
Exercise and diet can aid in treating ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. doctors who treat adhd in adults of therapy can help them learn how to deal with their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. inattentive adhd treatment adults is designed to change negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep routines and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care provider about a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can help people find a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can provide assistance and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with their child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.