Why Is There All This Fuss About ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication?
adhd treatment for adults medication For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These medications boost and balance the levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Nonstimulant medications such as antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or side effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and they reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine, which improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are many kinds of stimulant medications available each with its own side effects and benefits. The majority of people respond well to long-acting medications that accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels, which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medications that can treat adults with adhd, although they may take longer to start working. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for a long time "off-label" to treat ADHD among children and adults. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse effects or addiction. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD have difficulty to take stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants in order to minimize adverse effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are typically only used when other medications aren't working.
adhd treatment for adults medication and diet may also help treat ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or eliminating any foods.
Counseling
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy helps people develop strategies for managing their problems and can help them improve their life. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults with ADHD have proven to be effective. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Marital and family therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.
Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care providers about getting a referral to a specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to help people find the right combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at the home, in school or on the job. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with a child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.