ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults can benefit from many of the same treatments as children. These include medicine, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve the combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
The drugs increase brain chemicals that regulate attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate available under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta as well as stimulants belonging to the amphetamine family, such as lisdexamphetamine, which is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are drugs that speed up the body's systems and may result in greater mental alertness and more physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, and prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety heart palpitations, hypertension as well as paranoia and aggression. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine receptors in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of satisfaction. The stimulants are available in liquids, patches or pills. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be obtained illegally and abused.
The drugs in this class are also known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They work by increasing the quantity of certain chemicals in the brain that improve concentration, decrease fatigue, and improve alertness. They are the initial line of treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. The medications are available in the form of a morning-only formulation or longer-acting formulations that remain active throughout the day, like lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
The health care team might also suggest psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. Monitoring Recommended Online site of medication over time is vital and can be a complex task.
Non-stimulant Medications
Around 15% to 30% of children don't respond to stimulant medications and it's likely that this is true for adults as well. The non-stimulant drugs are slower to begin working, and may take a few weeks before you notice the effects. They don't have the same side effects and are a better option if you cannot tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.