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 referred to as neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or adverse effects. symptoms of adhd in adults treatment work slower than stimulants and reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These enhance attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are many kinds of stimulant medications available each with their own set of side effects and advantages. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people because they build up in the system over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication, 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 also aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for many years "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Because they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to cause severe adverse reactions or addiction. These medications can be used on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are only used when other medications fail.
Exercise and diet can be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat an appropriate diet, however people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from psychological counseling or therapy. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. what happens if adhd is left untreated in adults is a kind of therapy that adults with ADHD have shown to be successful at. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak to their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that works for them. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can assist parents and spouses better understand how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges that come with living with ADHD.