ADHD Medications For Adults
Adults are most likely to use stimulants as ADHD medication. Long-acting stimulants like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine are preferred over short-acting ones.
Atomoxetine may be prescribed to patients who are not able or unwilling to take methylphenidate, 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 treatments for adults suffering from ADHD. They improve focus, manage an impulsive behaviour and decrease anxiety. They work by boosting and balancing the levels of chemicals in the brain referred to as neurotransmitters. The most popular stimulants are methylphenidate and amphetamines. They come in liquid, tablet or chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes, and last for about three hours. Intermediate-release pills last longer, between six and eight hours. Long-acting capsules and tablets consumed daily last for up to 16 hours.
The stimulation can trigger adverse effects such as headaches, jitters and stomach upset. It can also raise blood pressure or heart rate which can be risky if you have heart problems.
Adults suffering from ADHD might find relief using other medications and therapies which target their specific symptoms. These include nonstimulants as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other drugs.
Nonstimulant medications work differently than stimulants for people with ADHD. It could take longer to start working but it is generally tolerated. medication for adhd is often paired with stimulants by healthcare professionals to maximize the effect and minimize any negative side effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These drugs increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which help improve attention and control of impulsive behaviors. medication for adhd 're not as fast-acting as stimulants, and may be less effective, but they could be better for certain individuals.
Many people suffering from ADHD report that lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep and maintaining an established routine, can alleviate their symptoms. A healthy diet can help. People suffering from ADHD should consume an appropriate diet and avoid foods high in fats, sugars, or artificial ingredients.
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) can be helpful for people suffering from ADHD as it can help them learn to manage their behavior and deal with anger and stress. Individual talk therapy may also help with emotional issues, such as low self-esteem, feeling of shame or embarrassment relating to failures at the workplace or at school.
Couples and families can also benefit from counseling for ADHD. It can help them learn how to improve communication, problem-solving and problems with relationships that can contribute to the disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be beneficial to people suffering from ADHD and anxiety. It can help change negative thinking patterns and to improve social skills. This kind of therapy is available in person with a therapist however, it can also be provided online through video chat programs such as Skype.
Other treatments that some sufferers of ADHD use to help manage their condition include supplements to their diet such as omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, and eliminating certain foods from their diets. However, these methods don't have strong scientific support and shouldn't be undertaken without medical advice. Additionally, cutting out certain foods can be harmful to your health, especially in the case of deficiency in certain nutrients. It is best to treat ADHD and anxiety simultaneously for those with both conditions.