ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that work for children with ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medication and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments may include a combination.
Stimulant Medicines
These medications work by increasing the brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate, sold as Ritalin and Concerta and stimulants from the amphetamine family, such as lisdexamphetamine. This is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medicines
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 tea and coffee) and nicotine, and prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety heart palpitations, high blood pressure, paranoia and aggression. For adhd adult treatment -term usage of stimulants can harm the functioning of the brain's dopamine system and reduce pleasure feelings. adhd adult treatment are available in liquids, patches or pills. Cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines are stimulants which can be purchased from a criminal and then used.
These medications are also called central nervous system stimulants. They function by increasing certain brain chemicals that improve concentration, decrease tiredness and increase alertness. They are the first line of treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. The medications are available in a morning-only formula or in 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. Monitoring the effectiveness of medication over time is crucial and can be an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
About 15%-30% of kids don't respond to stimulant medications and it's likely that this is the case for adults too. Non-stimulant medications take longer to work and can take up to several weeks to notice any effects. They don't have the same side effects and are a better choice when you are not able to take stimulants or are afraid of addiction.