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 drugs boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. They improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each comes with its own advantages and adverse effects. Long-acting medications are best for the majority of people since they accumulate in the body over time. psychological treatment for adhd in adults minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD medication options such as methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to start working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for many years. Because they don't impact the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious side effects or addiction. These medications can be taken on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
psychological treatment for adhd in adults with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are usually used only when other medication isn't helpful.
Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume healthy and balanced meals, but people suffering from ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues and teach them how to improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that people with ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care doctor regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can help people find the right combination of treatment strategies that work for them. They can offer assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with a child or partner who has ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.