7 Essential Tips For Making The Most Out Of Your ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication

ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

Stimulant drugs like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine are generally considered first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals, known as neurotransmitters.

Non-stimulant medications like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health problems or side effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and apathy.

Stimulants

Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. There are several kinds of stimulant medications available, each with its own side effects and benefits. Long-acting medications are best for most people, as they build up in the system over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that can be caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which can cause more symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD treatment options such as methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.

Non-stimulants

There are also non-stimulant medications that can be used to treat adult adhd, but they can take longer to start working. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, also known as alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be taken on a daily basis and last for up to 24 hours in order to reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.

Certain patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants because of their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to lessen adverse effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are usually only prescribed when other medications aren't effective.

Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but those with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, reduce the impulsive behavior, and decrease food cravings. Before making  adhd in adults untreated  to one's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.

Counseling

Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from psychological counseling or therapy. This type of therapy helps them learn strategies to manage their issues and can teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns to more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.

Self-help strategies such as improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about getting a referral to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has had experience treating adults with ADHD could be able help people find the right combination of treatments. They can offer assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with their child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to cope with the challenges of living with ADHD.