8 Tips To Up Your ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication Game

ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs balance and boost levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.

Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications like atomoxetine can be prescribed if stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health problems or adverse effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These medications are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. Several different brands of stimulant medications are available, and each comes with its own advantages and negative side effects. Most people respond better to long-acting medications that accumulate in the body over time. This reduces the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating levels of medications which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved a number of ADHD medication options, including methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.

Non-stimulants

There are also non-stimulant medications that can help treat adult adhd, but they can take longer to start working. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed for high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for a long time. Since they don't affect the epinephrine system the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause serious adverse reactions or addiction. These medications work for up 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to reduce impulsivity.

Some people with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants in order to minimize adverse effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are typically only used when other medications aren't effective.

Diet and exercise can aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should consume healthy and balanced meals, but people suffering from ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or cutting out any food items.

Counseling

Therapy, also known as psychotherapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. This type of therapy helps them learn strategies to manage their problems and can teach them skills to improve their life. CBT is a form of therapy that adults with ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed to transform negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults with ADHD are also able to benefit from marital and family therapy.

Self-help techniques like improving sleep patterns and limiting caffeine consumption can help reduce ADHD symptoms. People with ADHD should talk to their primary care provider regarding a referral to an ADHD specialist. A therapist or psychiatrist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that works for them. They can provide support and guidance on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home.  untreated adhd in adults uk  can assist parents and spouses better comprehend how to communicate with children with ADHD or how to deal with the challenges that come with living with ADHD.