ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication for adults. Short-acting stimulants are more preferred to long-acting stimulants like the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
Atomoxetine is often prescribed if people are unable to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. It raises the levels of noradrenaline in brain cells which helps to manage impulsive behaviors and improve concentration.
Stimulants
Stimulants are one of the most popular treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. They help improve focus, decrease anxiety, and manage impulsive behavior. They function by increasing and balancing the levels of chemicals in the brain, known as neurotransmitters. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are the first choice stimulants. They are available in liquid, tablet and chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants begin working in 30 to 45 minutes and last for three hours. Intermediate-release pills last longer, between six and eight hours. Once daily, long-acting capsules and tablets can last as long as 16 hours.
Stimulation can cause adverse effects such as trouble sleeping (a racing mind) and headaches, jitters and stomach upset. It can also raise the heart rate or blood pressure which is a risk in the event that you already have heart problems.
Adults suffering from ADHD might find relief using other treatments and medications that address their specific issues. These include nonstimulants and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Nonstimulant medication is different from stimulants to help people with ADHD. It can take longer to start working however, it is generally tolerated. Healthcare providers often pair it with stimulants to increase the effect and minimize side effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These medications boost the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which help improve attention and control of impulsive behaviors. These medications aren't as effective as stimulants, and they can be slower in their action. However, for certain individuals, they may be more effective.
Many people suffering from ADHD have reported that lifestyle changes, like having enough sleep and sustaining the same routine, may alleviate their symptoms. A healthy diet is also important. People with ADHD need to eat an appropriate diet and avoid foods high in sugar, fats or artificial ingredients.
source web page suffering from ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy) that can assist them in learning how to control their behavior and deal with anger and stress. Individual talk therapy may also help with emotional issues like low self-esteem, feeling of shame or embarrassment related to previous failures at school or at work.
Families and couples may also benefit from a program of counseling for ADHD. It can help them learn to improve communication, problem-solving and relationship difficulties that may contribute to the disorder.
People who suffer from both ADHD and anxiety may benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which can help change negative thinking patterns and improve social skills. This kind of therapy is usually done by a therapist who is present in person, however it is also available via video chat programs like Skype.
Other treatments that some sufferers of ADHD employ to manage their condition include supplements to their diet like omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, and removal of certain foods from their diets. These methods are not backed by strong scientific evidence and should only be used under the guidance of a medical professional. Cutting out foods can also cause harm to your overall health, especially in the case of certain nutrients being deficient. If you suffer from both ADHD and anxiety, it's a great idea to seek treatment for both conditions simultaneously.