ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that work for children with ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include medicine and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments may consist of a combination.
Stimulant Medications
These drugs work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that help control self-regulation and attention. They include the methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants from the amphetamine group, such as lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants increase the body's energy and can result in an increase in mental alertness and physical activity. treatment of add in adults include legal substances such as caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) and narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants, they can trigger overstimulation which can result in anxiety, heart palpitations and high blood pressure. They can also trigger anxiety and paranoia. For some long-term use of stimulants may damage the the dopamine system in the brain and decrease pleasure-seeking feelings. The stimulants are available as pills, liquids or patches. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine and amphetamines.
They are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They function by increasing certain chemicals in the mind that boost concentration, decrease tiredness and increase alertness. They are the first line of treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. The medications are available in a morning-only formula or in a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, like lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
The health care team could also suggest psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or education. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medicines over time. This can be challenging.
Non-stimulant Medicines
About 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulant drugs This is also true for adults too. Non-stimulant medications are slower to begin working, and may take a few weeks before you feel the effects. They do not have the same side effects and are a better option if you cannot tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.