ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs increase and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work more slowly than stimulants and decrease the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most common treatment for ADHD in children and adults. Several different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own advantages and negative side effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medicines, which build up in the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These drugs may take longer to take effect, but they can also aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. More suggestions are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for many years "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children. Because they don't impact the epinephrine receptors in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe side effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce the risk of impulsivity.
Certain patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to reduce the risk of side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are only used when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may help treat ADHD. Everyone should consume an appropriate diet, however those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or eliminating all foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and help them improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have proven to be effective. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Marital and family therapy can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep habits and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about referrals to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD could be able help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can also assist parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with a child or partner who has ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.