ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

adult adhd diagnostic assessment and treatment ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.

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

Stimulants

Stimulants raise the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine, which improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each has its own advantages and side negative effects. Long-acting medications are best for most people because they build up in the system over time. This reduces the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which may worsen symptoms as the medication gets older. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options that include methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.

Non-stimulants

There are also non-stimulant medications that can treat adults with adhd, but they can take longer to start working. These medications are known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for many years "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to reduce the risk of impulsivity.

Certain patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants to lessen adverse effects. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants generally have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are typically only used when other medications aren't working.

Diet and exercise may aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and food cravings. People with adhd treatment for adults medication should consult a doctor Treatment For ADHD in Adults uk before making changes to their diet or removing any foods.

Counseling

Psychological counseling, or therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help them learn strategies to manage their issues and can teach them skills to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one kind of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Marital and family therapy can also be beneficial for adults with ADHD.

Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms of adhd in adults treatment. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care physician about a referral to an adhd treatment for young adults specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD could be able help people find the right combination of treatments. They can provide support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with a child or partner with ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with adhd treatment for adults without medication.