ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs regulate and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants and 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. adhd treatment for older adults are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and side consequences. 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 dosage of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the drug wears out. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to take effect however they also aid in treating adult adhd. These drugs are called norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for many years "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These drugs can be used on a regular basis and last for up to 24 hours to reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Certain patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are typically only used when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior and cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help strategies, like increasing sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak to their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD may be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice for managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can help parents and spouses to comprehend how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.