ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that work for children with ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medication and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments may consist of a combination.
Stimulant Medications
These medications work by increasing brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. These include the chemical methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants belonging to the amphetamine group, such as lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants increase the body's energy 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 that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety heart palpitations, high blood pressure, paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction, reducing feelings of happiness. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
They are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by increasing certain chemicals in the mind which improve concentration, reduce fatigue, and boost alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first by these medications. They may be a quick-acting formula taken in the morning or a longer-acting drug that is 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 education. try these out is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medications over time. This is a difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
About 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulant medications This is also applicable to adults as well. The non-stimulant medications take longer time to take effect and it may take a few weeks for you feel any effects. However, they don't have the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants and may be a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate them or are worried about addiction.