This Is The History Of ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication In 10 Milestones

ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs increase and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals.

Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine and antidepressants may be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or side effects. 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, which improve attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are a variety of stimulant medications are available, and each medication has its own benefits and adverse effects. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people, as they build up in the system over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels that can cause symptoms to become worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).

Non-stimulants

These medications may take longer to take effect, but they can also help treat adhd in adults. These medications are known as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been employed "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for a long time.  simply click the up coming website page  are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or have serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs can be used on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours to decrease impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.

Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their negative side effects. In these instances doctors often prescribe antidepressants in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These 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 only prescribed when other medications fail.

Diet and exercise may also be helpful in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is essential for all adults but it's particularly essential for those with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or eliminating any food items.

Counseling

Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy can help them understand how to manage their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that adults with ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Family therapy and marriage therapy can also be beneficial for people with ADHD.

Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care providers about getting a referral to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding an approach to treatment that work for them. They can provide assistance and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or home. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with their child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.