best treatment for adhd in adults For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine are generally considered as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.
Antidepressants and nonstimulant medicines like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants are not suitable for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine, which improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each medication has its own advantages and adverse effects. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people because they accumulate in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications, which can make symptoms worse as the drug is worn off. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medications, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.
Non-stimulants
There are also non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to start working. These medications are referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic and norepinephrine-re inhibitors. They are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but have been used for years "off-label", to treat ADHD among children and adults. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or serious side effects because they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These medications can be used regularly and can last up to 24 hours to decrease the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and impulsivity.
Some patients with ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants to be taken together with a stimulant to reduce the risk of side effects. These medications include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants, such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). doctors that treat adhd in adults can cause more complicated adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications don't work.
Exercise and diet may help in treating ADHD. All adults should eat a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a diet or eliminating certain foods, those suffering from ADHD should consult with their physician.
Counseling
Psychological counseling, also known as therapy can be beneficial to adults suffering from ADHD. This kind of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues and also teach them skills to improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is a method of changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.
Self-help methods, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also help to reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about a referral to a specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist who has experience treating adults with ADHD may be able to assist patients in finding the best combination of treatments. They can provide assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at home, at school or on the job. They can also help parents or spouses learn to better communicate with the child or partner who has ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.