ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults are able to benefit from many of the same treatments as children. These include medicine as well as counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments can comprise a mix of.
how to treat adhd work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that help control attention and self-regulation. They include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants from the amphetamine group, such as the amphetamine lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants boost the body's metabolism and can lead to increased mental alertness and physical activity. They include legal substances like caffeine (added in tea and coffee) nicotine, prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) and narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety and heart palpitations, as well as hypertension as well as paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine system of the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of satisfaction. The stimulants are available as pills, liquids, or patches. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine and amphetamines.
These medications are also called central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain chemicals in the mind that improve concentration, decrease tiredness and increase alertness. They are the first line treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. The medications are available in a morning-only formula or in a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team may also suggest psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medication over time is crucial and is a complex task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
About 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulant medications and this is probably applicable to adults as well. The non-stimulant medications take longer time to kick in and may take a few weeks for you notice any effects. However, they don't carry the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants and may be a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate the effects of stimulants or are worried about addiction.