A How-To Guide For ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication From Beginning To End

ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters.

Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient because of other health problems or side effects. These medications work slower than stimulants and can reduce the impulsivity and inattention.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own advantages and adverse effects. Most people respond best to long-acting drugs that accumulate within the body over time. This can reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD treatment options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.

Non-stimulants

These medications may take longer to effect their effects however they also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are called 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 serious side effects because they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be taken regularly and last for up to 24 hours to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.

Certain patients suffering from ADHD find it difficult to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only prescribed when other medications don't work.

Exercise and diet may also help treat ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for everyone but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can increase concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and food cravings. People with ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or cutting out any foods.

Counseling

Adults with ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems and also teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from family and marital therapy.

Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. adhd in adults symptoms and treatment with ADHD should talk to their primary care doctor regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can assist people in finding a combination of treatment methods that works for them. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can help parents and spouses to know how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.

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Pub: 21 Dec 2024 01:27 UTC
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