ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that work for children with ADHD also treat adults. adhd adults treatment include counseling, medication (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They may also involve the combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medicines
The drugs increase the supply of certain brain chemicals that help control self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate, sold as Ritalin and Concerta, and stimulants in the amphetamine family such as lisdexamphetamine. This is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the body's systems and may cause higher mental alertness and increased physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to tea and coffee) and nicotine, as well as prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety heart palpitations, high blood pressure, aggression and paranoia. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine receptors in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of happiness. Stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches that are applied to the skin. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants which can be gotten illegally and abused.
The medications in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the quantity of certain brain chemicals that boost concentration, reduce fatigue, and improve alertness. They are the first line of treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. These medicines can be a formula that acts quickly used in the morning or a more prolonged-acting medication that stays active in the body for most of the day, such as Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin).
The health care team could also suggest psychosocial interventions, like psychotherapy or education. It is important to monitor the effectiveness of medication over time. This is challenging.
Non-stimulant Medications
About 15% to 30 percent of children do not respond to stimulant medications and this is probably true for adults too. Non-stimulant medications take longer to take effect and it can take up to several weeks to feel any effects. They do not have the same negative side effects and are a better choice if you cannot tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.