ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and they reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are many brands of stimulant medication, each with its own set of side effects and advantages. Long-acting medications are best for most people, as they build up in the system over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which can worsen symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can treat adults with adhd, though they might take longer to start working. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD in adults and children. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious side effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce the impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the risk of side effects. adhd symptoms adults treatment include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications don't work.
Diet and exercise may also help in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults, but it's especially crucial for those suffering from ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy can be beneficial to people with ADHD. This type of therapy helps people develop strategies for managing their problems and can help them improve their life. CBT is a type of therapy that adults with ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
adhd in adults symptoms and treatment -help strategies, like increasing sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that work for them. They can offer assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can help parents and spouses better understand how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.