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 medications boost and balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. adult adhd diagnosis and treatment work slower than stimulants and reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These are the most popular treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are a variety of kinds of stimulant medications available, each with its own side effects and benefits. Long-acting medications are best for most people because they accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the medication is used up. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD treatment options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can help treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to kick in. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. Typically, adult adhd diagnosis and treatment are prescribed for high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or have serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These medications work for up 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due their negative side effects. In these cases, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications don't work.
Diet and exercise may aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, reduce impulsive behavior and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help people develop strategies for managing their issues and can teach them skills to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one 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. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care providers about referrals to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding a combination of treatment methods that works for them. They can provide assistance and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can also assist parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with their child or partner with ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.