ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are generally considered as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs increase and balance neurotransmitters in the brain.
Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. These medications are slower than stimulants and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each medication has its own benefits and side consequences. first line treatment for adhd in adults of people respond well to long-acting medications that build up within the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication wears out. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to effect their effects, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD among children and adults. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or have serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be used on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications aren't working.
first line treatment for adhd in adults and exercise can help treat ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for everyone, but it's especially essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, reduce impulse-driven behavior, and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should talk to their doctor.
evidence based treatment for adhd in adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and help them improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that people with ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help methods, such as improving sleep habits and limiting caffeine intake, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should talk to their primary care doctor about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD could be able help patients find the ideal 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 know how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.