ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse reactions. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are several types of stimulant medications each with their own side effects and benefits. Long-acting medicines are ideal for the majority of people since they build up in the system over time. This reduces 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 treatment options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to take effect, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for many years "off-label", to treat ADHD among children and adults. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be used on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Certain patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants 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 have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications fail.
Exercise and diet may aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for everyone but it's particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can increase concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy helps them learn strategies to manage their problems and can help them improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep routines and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. adhd treatment for adults near me suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD might be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can assist parents and spouses to comprehend how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges that come with living with ADHD.