Why All The Fuss About ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication?
ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are typically considered the first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and can reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each has its own advantages and side effects. Most people respond best to long-acting drugs that build up in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which can make symptoms worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to work, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or other serious adverse effects since they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be taken on a regular basis and work for up to 24 hours in order to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people 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 adverse effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet may also aid in treating ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and teach them how to improve their life. CBT is a form of therapy that adults with ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. untreated adhd in adults relationships with ADHD should speak to their primary care provider about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can provide assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with a child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to cope with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.