ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same treatments that are effective for children with ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy), and life skills training. They can also involve some combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
The drugs increase the supply of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling self-regulation and attention. These include the methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants belonging to the amphetamine group like Lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants increase the body's energy and can cause increased alertness to the mind and physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to tea and coffee) and nicotine, as well as prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can create over-stimulation, which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, aggression and paranoia. For Iam Psychiatry , long-term usage of stimulants can harm the the brain's dopamine system and reduce pleasure feelings. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids or patches. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
These drugs are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain chemicals in the brain that boost concentration, decrease fatigue and improve alertness. They are the first line of treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. The medications are available in a morning-only formula or in longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, such as lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medication over time. This can be a difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines
Around 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulants, and it's likely that this is true for adults too. Non-stimulant medications take longer to start working, and can sometimes take several weeks before you feel the effects. However, they don't carry the same danger of having side effects as stimulants and can be a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate the effects of stimulants or are worried about addiction.