ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs increase and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications are more slowly than stimulants and decrease the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are several kinds of stimulant medications available each with their own benefits and side effects. untreated adhd in female adults symptoms I Am Psychiatry -acting drugs are the best choice for most people because they accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the drug wears out. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to effect their effects however they also aid in treating adult adhd. These drugs are called norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be taken on a daily basis and work for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only prescribed when other medications fail.
Exercise and diet may also aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume healthy and balanced meals, but people with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or cutting out any food items.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can teach them how to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help techniques such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about referrals to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist patients in finding an approach to treatment that work for them. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also assist parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with the child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.