ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults can benefit from the same treatments as children. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve a combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medicines
The drugs increase brain chemicals that regulate attention and self regulation. They include the chemical methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants belonging to the amphetamine group, such as the amphetamine lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants boost the body's metabolism and can result in increased mental alertness and physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, and prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants they can trigger overstimulation which can lead to anxiety, heart palpitations and high blood pressure. They may also cause aggression and anxiety and. In some people long-term usage of stimulants can harm the the brain's dopamine system, which can decrease pleasure-seeking feelings. Stimulants are available in pill form, liquids or patches that are applied to the skin. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include copyright, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
These medications are also called central nervous system stimulants. They function by increasing certain chemicals in the brain that boost concentration, get more info decrease tiredness and increase alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first with these drugs. These medicines are available in an all-day formula or longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, like the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team may also suggest psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medicines over time. This can be a difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medications
Around 15% to 30% of children don't respond to stimulant drugs, and it's likely that this is the case for adults too. Non-stimulant medications take longer to start working, and it can take some time before you feel the effects. However, they don't carry the same risk of side effects as stimulants, and could be a better choice if you can't tolerate the effects of stimulants or are worried about addiction.