ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs increase and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient because of other health issues or adverse effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own advantages and side effects. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medicines that accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels 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
These medications may take longer to effect their effects, but they can also aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or have serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be used regularly and work for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
treat adhd without medication adults with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to lessen the effects of stimulants. These include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't working.
Diet and exercise may help treat ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for everyone, but it's especially crucial for those suffering from ADHD. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. alternative adhd treatment for adults with ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or eliminating any foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that adults with ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD could be able help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with a child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.