ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health problems or adverse effects. These drugs work more slowly than stimulants and decrease the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own advantages and adverse effects. Long-acting medications are best for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which can cause more symptoms as the drug is used up. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to work however they also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. treatment for add adhd in adults are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for a long time "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Because they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse reactions or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to decrease the impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD are unable to take stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these cases, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the risk of side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.
Diet and exercise may also be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat an appropriate diet, however people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, reduce impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn strategies to manage their problems and can help them improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. internet site suffering from ADHD can also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help techniques, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist people in finding an approach to treatment that are effective for them. They can offer assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with the child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.