ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that are effective for children with ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include medicine, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments can comprise a mix of.
Stimulant Medications
These drugs work by increasing brain chemicals that control self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate, which is sold under the names Ritalin and Concerta, and stimulants in the amphetamine family like lisdexamphetamine. It is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
adult adhd treatment
Stimulants speed up the body and can lead to an increase in mental alertness and physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, aggression and paranoia. In some people, long-term use of stimulants can damage the the brain's dopamine system and decrease pleasure-seeking feelings. Stimulants can be taken in pill form, liquids or patches that go on the skin. The most commonly used and illegally obtained stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine and amphetamines.
The drugs in this class are also called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in the brain that boost concentration, reduce fatigue, and improve alertness. They are the first line of treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. The medications are available in an all-day formula or longer-acting formulations that remain active throughout the day, like the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team could also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or educational. It is crucial to track the effectiveness of medication over time. This is a difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medications
About 15%-30% of kids do not respond to stimulants, and it's likely that this is true for adults too. The non-stimulant drugs take longer to begin working, and may take several weeks before you begin to notice the effects. They do not have the same negative side effects and are a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or fear addiction.