ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that are effective for children with ADHD are also effective for adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. They could also include the combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medicines
These drugs work by increasing the brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate available under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta, and stimulants in the amphetamine family, like lisdexamphetamine. It is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants speed up the body and can cause an increase in mental alertness and physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, as well as prescription drugs used to treat attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants, they can cause overstimulation, which can result in anxiety, heart palpitations and high blood pressure. They can also trigger anxiety and paranoia. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine receptors in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of pleasure. The stimulants are available as liquids, patches or pills. The most commonly used and illegally obtained stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
add natural treatment in this class are also known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals that boost concentration, reduce fatigue, and boost alertness. They are the initial line of treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. These medications may be a quick-acting formula taken in the morning or a longer-acting medicine that stays active in the body for most of the day such as Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin).
The health care team can also recommend psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy or educational. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medicines over time. This can be a difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
About 15% to 30 percentage of children don't respond to stimulant medication This is also applicable to adults as well. Non-stimulant medications are slower to begin working, and it can take a few weeks before you begin to notice the effects. However, they don't carry the same danger of having side effects as stimulants and may be a better option for those who are unable to tolerate the effects of stimulants or are worried about addiction.