Why ADHD Treatment For Adults Medication Could Be More Dangerous Than You Realized
ADHD Treatment For Adults - Stimulant Medication
Adult ADHD is treated by stimulant medications such as dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate. These drugs boost and balance the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Nonstimulant and antidepressant medications like atomoxetine are often prescribed when stimulants aren't appropriate for the patient due to health issues or adverse effects. These medications are slower acting than stimulants, and they reduce impulsivity and lack of attention.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves attention and decreases impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs are used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each medication has its own advantages and negative side negative effects. Most people respond best to long-acting medicines, which build up in the body over time. This helps reduce the "ups-and-downs" that are caused by the fluctuating dosage of medication, which can worsen symptoms as the drug gets older. The FDA has approved a variety of ADHD medications such as amphetamines and methylphenidates (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta).
Non-stimulants
These drugs may take longer to effect their effects however, they can help treat adhd in adults. These drugs are also known as alpha-2 adrenergic or norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors. They are typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure, but they have been used for years "off-label" to treat ADHD in both adults and children. Because they don't affect the epinephrine receptors in the same way that stimulants do, they are less likely to cause severe side effects or addiction. These medications can be used on a daily basis and work for up to 24 hours to reduce impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention.
Some people with ADHD have trouble tolerating stimulants due to their adverse effects. In these cases doctors often prescribe antidepressants in conjunction with stimulants to lessen the effects of. These medications include tricyclic antidepressants, as well as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as imipramine, Tofranil and nortriptyline, (Aventyl and Pamelor). Antidepressants have more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are used only when other medications aren't working.
Exercise and diet can help in treating ADHD. Everyone should eat a balanced diet, but people suffering from ADHD are especially in need of it. A healthy diet can improve concentration, reduce impulse-driven behavior, and reduce food cravings. People with ADHD should consult a doctor before making any changes to their diet or cutting out all foods.
Counseling
Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from therapy or psychological counseling. This type of therapy helps individuals develop strategies to manage their issues and teach them how to improve their life. CBT is a kind of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have proven to be effective. long-term effects of untreated adhd in adults iampsychiatry is designed to alter negative thinking patterns and replace them with more positive ones. Adults suffering from ADHD can also benefit from family and marital therapy.
Self-help methods like improving sleep patterns and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also reduce ADHD symptoms. Individuals suffering from ADHD should speak with their primary care provider about referrals to an expert. A psychiatrist or therapist who has experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist patients in finding a combination of treatment methods that are effective for them. They can offer support and advice on how to manage ADHD at school, work or at home. They can also assist parents or spouses learn to better communicate with the child or partner who has ADHD and learn how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.