ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each comes with its own advantages and adverse effects. Most people respond better to long-acting medications that accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
adhd treatment for adults without medication -stimulants
These medications may take longer to take effect however, they can help treat adult adhd. These drugs are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for many years "off-label", to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Because they don't impact the epinephrine system in the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to cause serious adverse reactions or addiction. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce impulsivity.
Certain patients suffering from ADHD have difficulty to take stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications fail.
Exercise and diet can help in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for everyone however it is particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior and food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or cutting out any food items.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help techniques such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding an approach to treatment that works for them. They can provide support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with their child or partner with ADHD and how to cope with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.