ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults can benefit from the same therapies as children. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. These treatments may comprise a mix of.
Stimulant Medications
These medications work by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling attention and self-regulation. They include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants from the amphetamine group, such as lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are drugs that boost the body's systems and can cause higher levels of alertness in the mind and greater physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, as well as prescription drugs used to treat attention-deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety and heart palpitations, as well as high blood pressure, aggression and paranoia. For some long-term, use of stimulants can damage the the brain's dopamine system, which can reduce pleasure feelings. Stimulants can be taken in pill form, liquids or patches that are applied to the skin. add treatments for adults used and illegally obtained stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
These drugs are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain brain chemicals that boost concentration, decrease tiredness and increase alertness. Adults with ADD and ADHD are treated first by these medications. The medications are available in a morning-only formula or in longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, for example methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team may also suggest psychosocial interventions such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medication over time is vital and is an extremely complex process.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15% to 30% of children don't respond to stimulant medications, and it's likely that this is true for adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to kick in and can take up to a few weeks for you notice any effects. They don't have the same side effects and are a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or fear addiction.