Why All The Fuss? ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication?
ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse reactions. These medications work slower than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. These enhance concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are many kinds of stimulant medications available, each with its own benefits and side effects. Most people respond better to long-acting drugs, which build up within the body 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 medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can help treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to begin working. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for a long time. 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 work for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants to lessen side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants typically have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.
Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that people with ADHD have shown to be successful at. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from family and marital therapy.
what happens if adhd is left untreated in adults -help techniques, such as improving sleep habits and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about a referral to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can offer support and advice on how to manage ADHD at work, school or home. They can assist parents and spouses to know how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.