ADHD Treatments For Adults

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

Stimulant Medications

These medications work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate sold as Ritalin and Concerta, and stimulants in the amphetamine family such as lisdexamphetamine. This is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.

Stimulant Medications

Stimulants boost the body's metabolism and can cause an increase in mental alertness and physical activity. These include legal substances such as caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety heart palpitations, high blood pressure, aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of satisfaction. The stimulants are available as pills, liquids or patches. Cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines are stimulants that can be obtained illegally and used to abuse.


The drugs in this class are also known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and 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 medications can be a short-acting formula used in the morning or a longer-acting drug that remains active in the body for most of the day. Examples include lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin).

about his may also recommend psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. about his is important to monitor the effectiveness of medication over time. This is an extremely difficult task.

Non-stimulant Medications

Around 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulant medications This is also applicable to adults as well. The non-stimulant medications take longer time to kick in and may take several weeks to begin to notice any effects. They don't come with the same side effects and are a better option for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.