ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs increase and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These medications work more slowly than stimulants and decrease the impulsivity and inattention.
linked resource site raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine, which improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most popular treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. Different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each medication has its own advantages and side consequences. Most people respond better to long-acting drugs that build up in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the drug is used up. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (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 drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be used regularly and last for up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD have difficulty to take stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications don't work.
Diet and exercise may help treat ADHD. Everyone should eat healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial to people with ADHD. This type of therapy can help them learn strategies to manage their issues and can teach them how to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help techniques such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding an approach to treatment that works for them. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with their child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.