ADHD Treatments For Adults

Many of the same treatments that work for children suffering from ADHD are also effective for adults. These include medicine, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. treatment for adults with add could also include a combination of these treatments.

Stimulant Medications

These medications work by increasing the brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. These include the methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants in the amphetamine class like lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).

Stimulant Medications

Stimulants speed up the body and can result in increased alertness to the mind and physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, as well as prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants, they can cause overstimulation which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations and high blood pressure. They can also trigger aggression and anxiety and. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine receptors in the brain to malfunction, reducing feelings of happiness. Stimulants are available in pill form, liquids or patches that are applied to the skin. The most commonly used and illegally obtained stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.

Medications in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and work by increasing the quantity of certain brain chemicals which improve concentration, reduce fatigue, and improve alertness. Adults with ADD and ADHD are treated first with these medications. The medications are available in an all-day formula or a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, like lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.

The health care provider may also suggest psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medication over time. This is an extremely difficult task.


Non-stimulant Medicines

Around 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulants, and it's likely that this is true for adults as well. The non-stimulant medications take longer time to work and can take up to several weeks to notice any effects. However, they don't have the same risk of side effects as stimulants, and could be a better option in case you aren't able to take these medications or are concerned about addiction.