ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that are effective for children with ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy), and life skills training. They may also involve the combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medications
These medications work by increasing the supply of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling attention and self-regulation. These include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants belonging to the amphetamine group including lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants boost the body's metabolism and can result in increased mental alertness and physical activity. They include legal substances like caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, as well as prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety and heart palpitations, as well as hypertension, paranoia and aggression. For some long-term usage of stimulants can harm the the brain's dopamine system, which can decrease pleasure-seeking feelings. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches that go on the skin. Cocaine, methamphetamines, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be purchased illegally and used to abuse.
They are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain chemicals in the brain that improve concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. They are the first line treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. The medications are available in an all-day formula or a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, such as the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions, like psychotherapy or education. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is important and is an extremely complex process.
treatment for adhd adults -stimulant Medications
About 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulant drugs This is also to be the case for adults as well. Non-stimulant medications are slower to begin working, and can sometimes take a few weeks before you begin to notice the effects. But, they don't come with the same risk of side effects as stimulants and can be a better option for those who are unable to tolerate the effects of stimulants or are worried about addiction.