A Step-By-Step Guide To ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication From Beginning To End
ADHD Treatment For Adults – Stimulant Medication Stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters, which are brain chemicals. Non-stimulant medicines like antidepressants and atomoxetine can be prescribed when stimulants aren't suitable for the patient because of other health issues or side effects. These medications are 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. These enhance concentration and decrease impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Different brands of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication comes with its own advantages and negative side effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medicines that accumulate in the body 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 (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines. Non-stimulants These drugs may take longer to work however, they can help treat adhd in adults. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for many years “off-label”, to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not impact the epinephrine receptor. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease the risk of impulsivity. Some patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to help reduce side effects. I Am Psychiatry include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are only prescribed when other medications fail. Exercise and diet may be helpful in treating ADHD. A balanced diet is crucial for all adults however it is particularly crucial for those suffering from ADHD. A healthy diet can improve concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, people with ADHD should consult their doctor. Counseling Psychological counseling, also known as therapy, can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and can teach them how to improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that people with ADHD have shown to be successful at. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults with ADHD can also benefit from family and marital therapy. Self-help techniques like improving sleep patterns and limiting consumption of caffeine can help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist with expertise in treating adults suffering from ADHD can help people find a combination of treatment methods that works for them. They can offer support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also help parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with a child or partner who suffers from ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.