ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults can benefit from the same treatments as children. These include medicine as well as counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve some combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medicines
The drugs increase the availability of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate, which is sold under the names Ritalin and Concerta, and stimulants in the amphetamine family like lisdexamphetamine. It is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the body's system and may increase mental alertness and increased physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, and prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of satisfaction. adult add treatment are available in pills, liquids or patches. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants which can be gotten illegally and abused.
The medications in this class are also called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and work by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals that boost concentration, reduce fatigue and increase alertness. They are the first line treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. These medicines are available in the form of a morning-only formulation or a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, such as the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team might also recommend psychosocial interventions such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medicines over time. This is an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
About 15% to 30 percent of children do not respond to stimulant medications and this is probably applicable to adults as well. Non-stimulant drugs take longer to kick in and can take up to a few weeks for you feel any effects. They don't have the same side effects and are a better option when you are not able to take stimulants or fear of addiction.