ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that work for children suffering from ADHD are also effective for adults. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. These treatments may consist of a combination.
adhd treatment for adults increase brain chemicals that regulate attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate sold as 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 drugs that speed up the body's systems and may cause higher levels of alertness in the mind and greater physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, and prescription medicines that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants they can cause overstimulation which can lead to anxiety, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. They may also cause anxiety and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of happiness. Stimulants are available in liquids, patches or pills. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be gotten illegally and used to abuse.
These medications are also called central nervous system stimulants. They function by increasing certain chemicals in the brain that boost concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. They are the first line treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. These medications can be a formula that acts quickly used in the morning or a longer-acting drug that is active in the body for most of the day such as lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin).
The health care team can also suggest psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or education. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is crucial, and can be an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines
About 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulant drugs This is also applicable to adults as well. The non-stimulant medications take longer time to work and may take a few weeks for you begin to notice any effects. They don't come with the same adverse effects, and are a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or fear of addiction.
