ADHD Treatments For Adults

Adults are able to benefit from the same therapies as children. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. They could also include the combination of these treatments.

Stimulant Medications

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

Stimulant Medicines

Stimulants increase the body's energy and can result in increased alertness to the mind and physical activity. They include legal substances such as 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, stimulants may cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety and heart palpitations, as well as high blood pressure as well as paranoia and aggression. treatment for add in adults -term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of pleasure. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids or patches that go on the skin. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine and amphetamines.

The medications in this class are also known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They work by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals which improve concentration, reduce fatigue and increase alertness. They are the initial line of treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. These medicines are available in an all-day formula or longer-acting formulations that remain active throughout the day, for example methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.

The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. It is crucial to track the effectiveness of medications over time. This can be an extremely difficult task.

Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants

Around 15% to 30% of children do not respond to stimulants and it's likely that this is the case for adults too. Non-stimulant medicines take longer to begin working, and it can take several weeks before you begin to notice the effects. They don't come with the same negative side effects and are a better choice when you are not able to take stimulants or fear of addiction.