ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs regulate and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine, which improve concentration and reduce 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 medication has its own benefits and side negative effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medications, which build up in the body over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medication which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to effect their effects however they also aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or other serious adverse effects since they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be taken on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Suggested Website suffering from ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce adverse effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are typically only used when other medication isn't helpful.
Exercise and diet can be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can increase concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can also be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should consult their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can help people find the right combination of treatment strategies that work for them. They can provide support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can assist parents and spouses to comprehend how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.