ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants, and can reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. online adhd treatment for adults are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each medication has its own advantages and side effects. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat adult adhd, but they can take longer to begin working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for many years "off-label" to treat ADHD among children and adults. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or have serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be used regularly and last for up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to reduce the effects of stimulants. These include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medication isn't helpful.
Diet and exercise can help treat ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for everyone but it's particularly crucial for those suffering from ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and can teach them how to improve their life. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help techniques like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should consult their primary care doctor regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD might be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can help parents and spouses know how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.