ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs regulate and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are several types of stimulant medications each with their own set of side effects and advantages. Most people respond best to long-acting medications that accumulate within the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. long-term effects of untreated adhd in adults are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for many years "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe adverse effects or addiction. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken daily to decrease impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to lessen the effects of stimulants. These 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 typically only used when other medications aren't effective.
Diet and exercise may also be helpful in treating ADHD. doctors that treat adhd in adults should consume healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, reduce impulsive behavior and reduce cravings for food. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or cutting out any food items.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues, and can teach skills to improve their lives. long-term effects of untreated adhd in adults (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help techniques like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can help people find a combination of treatment methods that works for them. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at work, school or at home. They can also assist parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with the child or partner who suffers from ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.