How ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication Transformed My Life For The Better
ADHD Treatment For Adults – Stimulant Medication Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are typically considered the as the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters. Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These medications are slower than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and inattention. Stimulants Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. They improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are several types of stimulant medications, each with its own set of side effects and advantages. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people because they build up in the system over time. This reduces the “ups and downs” caused by fluctuating levels of medication which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines. Non-stimulants There are also non-stimulant medications that can treat adults with adhd, though they might take longer to begin working. These medications are referred to as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. check out your url are typically prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been used “off-label” to treat ADHD in children and adults for many years. Because they don't impact the epinephrine system the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse effects or addiction. These medications work for up 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to reduce the risk of impulsivity. Some people with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to reduce the risk of side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't working. Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. People with ADHD should consult with a physician before making changes to their diet or cutting out any food items. 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 teach them skills to improve their life. CBT is a kind of therapy that people with ADHD have proven to be successful at. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns into more positive ones. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy. Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should consult their primary care doctor about referral to an ADHD specialist. 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 provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can assist parents and spouses to comprehend how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges that come with living with ADHD.