ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These medications boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Non-stimulant medications like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.
adult adhd diagnostic assessment and treatment
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and reduces 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 has its own benefits and side effects. Long-acting medications are best for most people because they accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant drugs that can be used to treat adult adhd, but they can take longer to kick in. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in children and adults for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or have serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These medications can be taken regularly and work for up to 24 hours to decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these instances, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex side effects than stimulants, and are only used when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet may be helpful in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can increase concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. People with ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or removing any food items.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that people with ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help strategies, like improving sleep habits and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should consult their primary care provider about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can help people find an approach to treatment that are effective for them. They can provide support and advice for managing ADHD at the home, in school or on the job. They can also help parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with a child or partner who suffers from ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.