ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine are typically considered the as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These medications work slower than stimulants and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. These enhance concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each comes with its own advantages and adverse 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" caused by fluctuating medication levels which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
adhd treatment for adults near me -stimulants
These medications may take longer to work, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. 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 trigger addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These medications work for up 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to reduce the impulsivity.
Some people with ADHD find it difficult to take stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to lessen the effects of stimulants. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are only used when other medications fail.
Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat healthy and balanced meals, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or cutting out any food items.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial to adults with ADHD. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and teach them skills to improve their life. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults with ADHD. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience treating adults with ADHD might be able to help patients find the ideal combination of treatments. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at home, at school, or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses comprehend how to communicate with a child with ADHD or how to handle the challenges that come with living with ADHD.