treating adult adhd Treatments For Adults
Many of the same treatments that are effective for children with ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medication and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They may also involve some combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medications
These medications work by increasing the brain chemicals that control self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate, available under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta as well as stimulants belonging to the amphetamine family, such as lisdexamphetamine, which is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants are medications that boost the body's systems and may increase mental alertness and
add treatments for adults increased physical activity. They include legal substances like caffeine (added in tea and coffee), nicotine, and prescription medications used to treat attention-deficit disorder (Add Treatments For Adults (
Telegra.Ph)), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety, heart palpitations, hypertension, aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of pleasure. Stimulants are available in pill form, liquids or patches that go on the skin. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
The medications in this class are known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They work by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in the brain that improve concentration, decrease fatigue and increase alertness. They are the initial line of treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. These medicines are available in a morning-only formula or in longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, for example lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is crucial and can be an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15%-30 percent of children do not respond to stimulant medications, and this is likely to be the case for adults as well. Non-stimulant drugs take longer to take effect and it can take up to several weeks to begin to notice any effects. They don't have the same side effects and are a better option for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or fear addiction.