ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs increase and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and can reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These enhance attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. There are several brands of stimulant medication each with their own side effects and benefits. Most people respond better to long-acting medicines that accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can help treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to start working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for many years. what google did to me are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to reduce impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the risk of side effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet may aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat an appropriate diet, however people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. People with ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or eliminating all foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help techniques, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should consult their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist people in finding a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can offer support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with their child or partner who has ADHD and how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.