What Is ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication? And How To Make Use Of It

ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine are generally considered first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These drugs boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.

Nonstimulant medications such as atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and can reduce impulsivity and inattention.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine, and norepinephrine. They improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and side negative effects. Long-acting medications are best for most people, as they build up in the system over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).

Non-stimulants

These drugs may take longer to work, but they can also aid in treating adult adhd. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. Typically,  treatment for inattentive adhd in adults  are prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious adverse effects since they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These drugs can be used on a regular basis and last for up to 24 hours to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.

Certain patients suffering from ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these cases, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. 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 can help treat ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult their doctor.

Counseling

Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and can teach them how to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD.

Self-help techniques such as improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should consult their primary care physician about referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can provide assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can help parents and spouses to know how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to handle the challenges of living with ADHD.