What Is ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication? To Make Use Of It
ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs increase and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These enhance concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are several types of stimulant medications each with its own set of side effects and advantages. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people because they build up in the system over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medication options such as methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can be used to treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to kick in. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for a long time "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Because they don't affect the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious side effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to reduce the risk of side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.
Diet and exercise may also aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat healthy and balanced meals, but people with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult with a physician before making any changes to their diet or eliminating any food items.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD may benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults with ADHD. adhd treatment for adult women is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help techniques such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak to their primary care doctor about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD could be able help people find the right combination of treatments. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can assist parents and spouses better comprehend how to communicate with children who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.