ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or side effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine, which improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat 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 accumulate in the body over time. adhd treatment for adults uk reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels, which can make symptoms worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can help treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to start working. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD in adults and children. Since they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse effects or addiction. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to reduce the impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants to reduce adverse effects. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are usually used only when other medications aren't effective.
Diet and exercise may also be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, reduce impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and can teach them how to improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be effective. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies, like improving sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. untreated adhd in female adults with ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD could be able help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can offer support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can assist parents and spouses comprehend how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.