What ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication Experts Want You To Be Educated
ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are typically considered the as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These drugs increase and balance neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.
Non-stimulant medicines like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient because of other health issues or adverse effects. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. They improve concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are many kinds of stimulant medications available each with its own set of side effects and advantages. Long-acting medications are best for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These medications may take longer to take effect however they also help treat adhd in adults. These medications are known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for years "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease the risk of impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to reduce the risk of side effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex side effects than stimulants, and are used only when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. All adults should eat healthy and balanced meals, but people with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their problems and can help them improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have proven to be successful at. adhd in adult women treatment is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD.
Self-help strategies, like improving sleep habits and limiting the intake of caffeine, can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should speak to their primary care provider about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding an approach to treatment that works for them. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can help parents and spouses better know how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to handle the challenges of living with ADHD.