ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication

Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine have been regarded as the as the first-line treatment for adults with ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters.

Antidepressants and nonstimulant medications, such as atomoxetine, are often prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to other health issues or adverse reactions. These drugs are slower-acting than stimulants, and can reduce the amount what type of doctor treats adhd in adults impulsivity and apathy.

Stimulants

Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters, norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These are the most popular treatment for ADHD in children and adults. There are several kinds what type of doctor treats adhd in adults stimulant medications available each with its own set of side effects and advantages. Most people respond best to long-acting drugs, which build up within the body over time. This minimizes the "ups and downs" caused by fluctuating medication levels, which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).

Non-stimulants

There are also non-stimulant medicines that can be used to treat adult adhd, but they can take longer to start working. These medications are referred to as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. Typically, they are prescribed for high blood pressure, but have been used "off-label" to treat ADHD in adults and children for a long time. They are less likely than stimulants to trigger addiction or serious negative side effects due to the fact that they do not affect the epinephrine receptor. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and can be taken daily to decrease the impulsivity.

Certain patients suffering from ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due their side effects. In these instances, doctors might prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants to reduce side effects. These include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which include imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants usually have more complicated side effects than stimulants, and are usually only prescribed when other medication isn't helpful.

Diet and exercise may help treat ADHD. All adults should eat an appropriate diet, however those with ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration and untreated adhd in female adults Symptoms decrease impulse-driven behaviors and cravings for food. Before making any changes to a person's diet or removing certain foods, people with ADHD should talk to their doctor.

Counseling

Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from psychological counseling or therapy. This kind of therapy can help them understand how to deal with their problems, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a form of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be successful at. CBT is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with positive ones. Adults suffering from alternative adhd treatment for adults can also benefit from family and marital therapy.

Self-help methods such as improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should talk to their primary care physicians about getting a referral to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has expertise in treating adults suffering from untreated adhd in female adults symptoms (such a good point) can assist patients in finding the right combination of treatment strategies that works for them. They can provide assistance and guidance for managing ADHD at the home, in school or at work. They can also assist parents or spouses learn how to better communicate with a child or partner who has ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.