ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs increase and balance the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work more slowly than stimulants and decrease the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are the most popular treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are several kinds of stimulant medications available each with its own side effects and benefits. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications, which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can treat adults with adhd, although they may take longer to kick in. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs can be used regularly and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their adverse effects. In effects of untreated adhd in adults may prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. doctors who treat adhd in adults near me include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex side effects than stimulants and are typically only used when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet can be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are especially in need of it. doctors who treat adhd in adults near me can improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors 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
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Marital and family therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help strategies, like improving sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak with their primary care provider about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding an approach to treatment that work for them. They can provide assistance and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with their child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.