ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
how to get treated for adhd in adults and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These drugs work more slowly than stimulants and decrease the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as 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 benefits and negative side consequences. Long-acting medications are best for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications which can make symptoms worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD treatment options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can treat adults with adhd, although they may take longer to start working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for a long time. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to cause severe side effects or addiction. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to reduce the impulsivity.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants in order to minimize side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet can be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease impulsive behaviors and food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or cutting out any foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help techniques such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about getting a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD could be able assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also help parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with their child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.