ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults can benefit from many of the same therapies as children. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy), and life skills training. They may also involve a combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
These medications work by increasing the supply of certain brain chemicals that help control self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate, which is available under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta as well as stimulants belonging to the amphetamine family, such as lisdexamphetamine. This is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the body's system and may increase mental alertness and more physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added in coffee and tea), nicotine, and prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants, they can cause overstimulation, which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. They may also cause anxiety and anxiety and. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine receptors in the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of pleasure. Stimulants are available in pills, liquids or patches that are applied to the skin. The most commonly used and illegally obtained stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Medications in this class are known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals which improve concentration, reduce fatigue and increase alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first with these medications. They are available as a morning-only formula or in longer-acting formulations that remain active throughout the day, such as lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
treating add in adults may also suggest psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medication over time is important, and can be an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines
About 15% to 30% of children do not respond to stimulant drugs and this is probably applicable to adults as well. The non-stimulant medications take longer time to take effect and it can take up to several weeks before you feel any effects. However, they don't carry the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants, and could be a better option in case you aren't able to take these medications or are concerned about addiction.