ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.
treatment for adhd in adults uk and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine may be prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to health issues or adverse reactions. These medications are slower than stimulants and can reduce the impulsivity and inattention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and negative side negative effects. Long-acting drugs are the best choice for most people, as they accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by fluctuating levels of medication, which could worsen symptoms as the medication gets older. 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 drugs that can help treat adult adhd, although they may take longer to begin working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but they have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children for many years. Because untreated adhd in adults don't impact the epinephrine system the same way as stimulants, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse reactions or addiction. These medications work for up 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants in combination with stimulants to reduce adverse effects. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications fail.
Diet and exercise may help treat ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for everyone however it is particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. Before making any changes to a person's diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD can benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been found to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. treatment for adhd in adults uk suffering from ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should consult their primary care physician about a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding an approach to treatment that work for them. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with their child or partner who has ADHD and how to cope with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.