ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs regulate and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
adhd treatment for adults online and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each comes with its own advantages and side consequences. Most people respond best to long-acting drugs that build up within the body over time. This helps reduce 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 medication options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can treat adults with adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. These medications are referred to as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for a long time "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or have serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce the impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants to reduce adverse effects. These 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 prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet may be helpful in treating ADHD. All adults should eat healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Marital and family therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care providers about a referral to an expert. 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 offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with a child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.