How ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication Impacted My Life The Better

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 drugs boost and balance levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health problems or adverse effects. These medications are slower than stimulants and reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention. Stimulants Stimulants boost the levels of brain neurotransmitters dopamine as well as norepinephrine. These enhance attention and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are the most common treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are a variety of types of stimulant medications each with their own set of side effects and advantages. evidence based treatment for adhd in adults respond better to long-acting medications that build up within the body over time. This can reduce the “ups-and-downs” that are caused by the fluctuating levels of medication, which can worsen symptoms as the drug is used up. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications including amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta). Non-stimulants These medications may take longer to take effect however they also help treat adhd in adults. These medications are referred to as norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been employed “off-label” to treat ADHD in children and adults for a long time. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way as stimulants do, they are less likely to trigger serious adverse effects or addiction. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease impulsivity. Some patients with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants because of their side effects. In these cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to reduce the effects of stimulants. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are only prescribed when other medications fail. Diet and exercise can help treat ADHD. A well-balanced diet is important for everyone but it's particularly important for people with ADHD. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and reduce impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor. Counseling Psychological counseling, or therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that has been shown to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD may also benefit from family and marital therapy. Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care physicians about getting a referral to an expert. A therapist or psychiatrist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that work for them. They can offer assistance and advice on managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can assist parents and spouses better comprehend how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.