ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication Tips From The Best In The Business
ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and can reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and side effects. Most people respond best to long-acting drugs that build up within the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which could cause more symptoms as the drug is used up. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medication options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to work however, they can aid in treating adult adhd. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but they have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These drugs can be used regularly and work for up to 24 hours to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken in conjunction with stimulants to help reduce 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 adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.
Exercise and diet may also aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior and food cravings. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Marital and family therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about getting a referral to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with the child or partner who has ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.