ADHD Medications For Adults
Adults are more likely to use stimulants as ADHD medications. Short-acting stimulants are more preferred to long-acting stimulants like the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
Atomoxetine may be prescribed to people who are in a position to not or are unwilling to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. It increases the level of noradrenaline in brain cells, which helps manage impulsive behavior and increase concentration.
Stimulants
Adults with ADHD are typically treated with stimulants. They help improve focus, decrease anxiety, and manage impulsive behavior. They are effective by boosting and managing the levels of chemicals called neurotransmitters in the brain. The most popular stimulants are methylphenidate and amphetamines. They come in liquid, tablet or chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants kick within 30 to 45 minutes and last for approximately three hours. Intermediate-release tablets last longer, between six and eight hours. Long-acting capsules and tablets used daily, last up to 16 hours.
The stimulation can trigger side effects, such as insomnia (a racing mind), jitters, headaches and stomach upset. It can also raise blood pressure or heart rate which can be dangerous if you already have heart problems.
Adults suffering from ADHD may be able to find relief with other therapies and medications that target their specific symptoms. These include nonstimulants, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and various other medications.
Nonstimulant medication is different from stimulants to aid those suffering from ADHD. It may take longer to begin working however, it is generally well-accepted. Healthcare professionals often pair it with stimulants to enhance the effects and minimize adverse effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These medications increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain to improve the ability to focus and control impulsive behavior. These medications aren't as effective as stimulants and they are slower to take effect. However, for some people, they might be more effective.
Many people with ADHD discover that lifestyle changes can ease their symptoms, such as getting enough sleep and following an established schedule. A healthy diet can help. People suffering from ADHD must eat a balanced diet and avoid eating foods that are high in sugar, fat or artificial ingredients.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy), which can assist them in learning how to control their behavior and deal with anger and stress. Individual talk therapy can help with emotional issues such as low self esteem, feelings of shame or embarrassment relating to past failures in school or at work.
Counseling for families and couples can also assist people with ADHD. It can help them learn techniques to improve communication and problem-solving as well as help with issues in relationships that could contribute to the disorder.
People with both ADHD and anxiety can benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which can help to change negative thinking patterns and enhance social skills. This kind of therapy can be conducted in the presence of a therapist but it is also provided online through video chat programs such as Skype.
Other treatments that some patients with ADHD employ to manage their condition include dietary supplements like omega-3 fatty acids and coenzyme Q10, as well as the removal of certain foods from their diets. These methods are not backed by solid scientific proof and should only be used with medical advice. Additionally, cutting out certain foods can be harmful to your health, especially in the case of deficiency in certain nutrients. For see this website who suffer from both ADHD and anxiety, it's a great idea to seek treatment for both conditions at the same time.