A Step-By Step Guide For Choosing Your ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication
ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.
Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse effects. how to get treated for adhd in adults work more slowly than stimulants and decrease impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD in children and adults. Several different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own advantages and adverse effects. Long-acting medicines are ideal 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 medication that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a range of ADHD medication options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
These medications can take longer to work, but they can also help treat adult adhd. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or other serious side effects because they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken regularly to reduce the impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants in order to minimize adverse effects. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for all adults but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can help increase concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to one's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to deal with their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults suffering from 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 physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD might be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school, or on the job. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with the child or partner who has ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.