ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.

Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce impulsivity and inattention.

Stimulants

Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and reduces 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 medicines are ideal for the majority of people since they build up in the system over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).

Non-stimulants

There are also non-stimulant medicines that can help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for many years "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to cause severe side effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce impulsivity.


Certain patients suffering from ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due their negative side effects. In adhd in adult women treatment prescribe antidepressants together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications aren't working.

Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for everyone but it's particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulse-driven behavior, and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.

Counseling

Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy helps them learn strategies to manage their issues and can help them improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.

Self-help methods, such as improving sleep habits and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care providers about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that work for them. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. They can help parents and spouses know how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.