15 Startling Facts About ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication That You Didn't Know

ADHD Treatment For Adults – Stimulant Medication Adult ADHD is treated with stimulant drugs like dextroamphetamine or methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals known as neurotransmitters. Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines, such as atomoxetine, can be prescribed if stimulants aren't suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These drugs work slower than stimulants and can reduce the amount of impulsivity and lack of attention. Stimulants Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are several kinds of stimulant medications available each with their own set of side effects and advantages. Most people respond best to long-acting medications that build up within 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 several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta). Non-stimulants There are also non-stimulant medications that can be used to treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to kick in. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for a long time “off-label”, to treat ADHD among children and adults. 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. These medications work for up 24 hours and can be taken regularly to decrease the risk of impulsivity. Some patients with ADHD are unable to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to reduce the effects of stimulants. These 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. Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet helps improve concentration, decrease impulsive behavior and reduce cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician. Counseling Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD. This type of therapy can help them learn how to manage their problems and teach them how to improve their lives. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one type of therapy that has been proven to be effective for adults suffering from ADHD. CBT is designed to change negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Marital and family therapy can be beneficial for people with ADHD. Self-help strategies like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should consult their primary care provider regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. untreated adhd in female adults symptoms or therapist with expertise in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can provide assistance and advice on managing ADHD at the home, in school or on the job. They can help parents and spouses better understand how to communicate with a child who suffers from ADHD or how to manage the challenges of living with ADHD.