ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that work for children suffering from ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve a combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medicines
These drugs work by increasing brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. They include the chemical methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants in the amphetamine class including lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants are substances that boost the body's systems and may increase levels of alertness in the mind and greater physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added to tea and coffee) and nicotine, as well as prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety and heart palpitations, as well as hypertension as well as paranoia and aggression. For some long-term, use of stimulants may damage the the dopamine system in the brain and decrease pleasure-seeking feelings. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches that go on the skin. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be gotten illegally and abused.
These drugs are also known as central nervous system stimulants. treatment for add in adults work by boosting certain chemicals in the mind that boost concentration, decrease fatigue and improve alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first by these drugs. These medicines are available in the form of a morning-only formulation or a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, for example lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
The health care team may also suggest psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or educational. treatment of add in adults is crucial to track the effectiveness of medications over time. This can be a difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15% to 30% of children do not respond to stimulants, and it's likely that this is the case for adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to kick in and can take up to several weeks before you begin to notice any effects. But, they don't come with the same risk of side effects as stimulants, and could be a better choice in case you aren't able to take these medications or are concerned about addiction.
