ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults are able to benefit from the same therapies as children. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. treating adhd in adults may comprise a mix of.
Stimulant Medicines
These drugs work by increasing brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate, sold under the names Ritalin and Concerta, and stimulants in the amphetamine family such as lisdexamphetamine. This is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the body's systems and may increase levels of alertness in the mind and greater 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, stimulants can create over-stimulation, which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, high blood pressure as well as paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine system of the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of pleasure. Stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches that go on the skin. The most commonly used and illegally obtained stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine and amphetamines.
The medications in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals that boost concentration, reduce fatigue and increase alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first with these drugs. They are available as the form of a morning-only formulation or longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, for example methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
The health care provider may also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is vital and can be an extremely complex process.
Non-stimulant Medicines
Around 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulants, and it's likely that this is true for adults as well. Non-stimulant medicines take longer to start working, and it can take a few weeks before you feel the effects. They do not have the same side effects and are a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.