ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants, and can reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and negative side negative effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medications that build up within 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 drug is used up. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to kick in. psychological treatment for adhd in adults are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for many years "off-label" to treat ADHD among children and adults. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or other serious side effects because they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the risk of side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are typically only used when other medications aren't effective.
Diet and exercise may also aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are especially in need of it. how to get treated for adhd in adults can help increase concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn strategies to manage their issues and can teach them how to improve their life. CBT is a type of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help techniques, such as improving sleep habits and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care doctor about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD might be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can offer support 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 a child or partner with ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.