ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that are effective for children with ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve some combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medications
These drugs work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling self-regulation and attention. treatments for adult add include methylphenidate sold as Ritalin and Concerta as well as stimulants belonging to the amphetamine family like lisdexamphetamine. It is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants speed up the body and can lead to increased alertness to the mind and physical activity. They include legal substances like caffeine (added in tea and coffee) nicotine, as well as prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants they can trigger overstimulation which can lead to anxiety, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. They may also cause aggression and anxiety and. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system of the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of happiness. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches that are applied to the skin. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be gotten illegally and abused.
These medications are also called central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain chemicals in the mind which improve concentration, reduce tiredness and increase alertness. They are the first line of treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. They are available as a morning-only formula or in a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, like methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team might also recommend psychosocial interventions such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. It is important to monitor the effectiveness of medicines over time. This can be an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines
Around 15%-30% of children don't respond to stimulant medications and it's likely that this is the case for adults as well. The non-stimulant drugs take longer to start working, and it can take a few weeks before you feel the effects. However, they don't have the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants and may be a better option in case you aren't able to take them or are worried about addiction.