ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same treatments that are effective for children with ADHD are also effective for adults. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy), and life skills training. They may also involve some combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
These medications work by increasing the supply of certain brain chemicals that help control self-regulation and attention. treating adhd in adults include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants belonging to the amphetamine group, such as lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants are medications that boost the body's systems and may increase mental alertness and more physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, and prescription medicines used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may create over-stimulation, which can cause anxiety and heart palpitations, as well as high blood pressure, paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of satisfaction. Stimulants are available in liquids, patches or pills. Cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines are stimulants which can be gotten from a criminal and then used.
Medications in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and work by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals which improve concentration, reduce fatigue, and improve alertness. They are the initial line of treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. These medicines are available in a morning-only formula or in longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, for example the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or educational. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is vital and is an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines
Around 15% to 30% of children don't respond to stimulant medications and it's likely that this is the case for adults as well. Non-stimulant drugs take longer to take effect and it may take several weeks to notice any effects. But, they don't come with the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants and can be a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate them or are worried about addiction.