ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. what happens if adhd is left untreated in adults are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine. These enhance attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own benefits and adverse consequences. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medications, which build up in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the drug gets older. 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 medicines that can treat adults with adhd, though they might take longer to kick in. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. Because they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe adverse reactions or addiction. These medications can be taken regularly and last for up to 24 hours to decrease the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the effects of stimulants. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume healthy and balanced meals, but people suffering from ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn strategies to manage their issues and teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have shown to be successful at. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Family and marital therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help strategies, like increasing sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should consult their primary care provider about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding an approach to treatment that are effective for them. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can help parents and spouses to know how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.