ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or side effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and adverse effects. Long-acting medications are best for the majority of people since they build up in the system over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to take effect however they also help treat adhd in adults. doctors who treat adhd in adults near me are called norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for a long time "off-label" to treat ADHD among children and adults. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious side effects because they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs can be used regularly and can last up to 24 hours in order to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to lessen side effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications don't work.
adhd treatment for young adults and diet may also help treat ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. Before making any changes to a person's diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, or therapy can be beneficial to adults with ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to deal with their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. adult adhd diagnosis and treatment with ADHD should consult their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help people find the right combination of treatments. They can offer support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with their child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.