ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication<br /><br />Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine. These drugs boost and balance neurotransmitters in the brain.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.com/adult-adhd-treatment">treatment for adhd in adults uk iampsychiatry.com</a> and antidepressant medications, such as atomoxetine, may be prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health problems or adverse effects. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants and reduce the impulsivity and lack of focus.<br /><br />Stimulants<br /><br />Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both children and adults. There are several brands of stimulant medication each with its own benefits and side effects. Most people respond better to long-acting medications, which build up in the body over time. This minimizes 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 such as methylphenidates (including Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines.<br /><br />Non-stimulants<br /><br />There are also non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat adult adhd, though they might take longer to begin working. These medications are also referred to as alpha-2 adrenergic, or norepinephrine inhibitors. Typically, they are prescribed to treat high blood pressure but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for many years. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or serious side effects because they do not affect the epinephrine receptor system. These drugs work for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to decrease the impulsivity.<br /><br />Certain patients with ADHD are not able to tolerate stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to be taken in combination with a stimulant to lessen the effects of. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications fail.<br /><br /><br /><br />Exercise and diet may also aid in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people with ADHD are in particular need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior and food cravings. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or cutting out any foods.<br /><br />Counseling<br /><br />Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and can teach them how to improve their life. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have shown to be effective. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Adults with ADHD may also benefit from marital and family therapy.<br /><br />Self-help strategies, like increasing sleep routines and limiting caffeine intake, can also aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Individuals with ADHD should talk to their primary care provider about getting a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding a combination of treatment methods that work for them. They can offer support and advice for managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with their child or partner who suffers from ADHD and how to deal with the challenges associated with living with ADHD.<br /><br />