ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These medications boost and balance levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and they reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine. They improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each has its own benefits and adverse consequences. Long-acting medications are best for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the medication gets older. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These drugs may take longer to work, but they can also aid in treating adult adhd. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for a long time "off-label" to treat ADHD among children and adults. Because adhd treatment for adults uk don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious side effects or addiction. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants in order to minimize side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are typically only used when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may also be helpful in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for everyone however it is particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that people with ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak to their primary care provider about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that work for them. They can provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. 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 of living with ADHD.