ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs regulate and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. These enhance concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own advantages and side effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting drugs that accumulate within 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 a range of ADHD medications that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can treat adults with adhd, but they can take longer to begin working. These medications are referred to as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. Since they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe side effects or addiction. These medications can be taken regularly and can last up to 24 hours in order to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may aid in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for all adults however it is particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor.
how to get treated for adhd in adults , also known as therapy can be beneficial to adults suffering from ADHD. This type of therapy can help people develop strategies for managing their issues and can help them improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.
Self-help techniques, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should talk to their primary care doctor about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer support and guidance 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 learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.