ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are among the most commonly used ADHD medications for adults. Long-acting stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine are preferred over short-acting ones.
Atomoxetine is a prescription drug for those who are not able or unwilling to take methylphenidate, Lisdexamfetamine. It increases the amount of noradrenaline in brain cells, which assists with concentration and regulating the impulsive behavior.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common treatments for adults suffering from ADHD. They improve focus, decrease anxiety and help control impulsive behaviors. They work by increasing and balancing levels of chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Amphetamines and methylphenidate are the first choice stimulants. They are available in liquid, tablet and chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants kick in between 30 and 45 minutes and last for three hours. Intermediate-release pills last longer, between six and eight hours. Each day, long-acting capsules and tablets can last up to 16 hrs.
Stimulation can cause negative side effects, such as headaches stomach upset and jitters. It can also raise blood pressure or heart rate which can be dangerous in the event that you already have heart problems.
Adults suffering from ADHD may find relief through other treatments and medications that address their specific issues. treating adhd without medication include nonstimulants and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Nonstimulant medications work differently than stimulants for people suffering from ADHD. It might take longer to start working but it is generally well tolerated. Healthcare professionals often combine it with stimulants to enhance the effects and reduce side effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These medications increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which help increase attention and reduce impulsive behavior. They're not as quick-acting as stimulants and are less effective, but they could be better for certain individuals.
Many people suffering from ADHD say that lifestyle changes, like getting enough sleep and keeping the same routine, may help to reduce symptoms. A healthy diet is also important. People suffering from ADHD should follow a well-balanced diet and avoid eating foods that are high in sugar, fat or artificial ingredients.
Adults with ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy) that can help them learn how to manage their behavior and manage stress and anger. Individual therapy can help with emotional issues that might contribute to impulsive and self-destructive behavior such as low self-esteem or feelings of embarrassment or shame related to previous failures at school or work.
Families and couples can benefit from therapy for ADHD. It can teach them how to improve communication, problem-solving and problems with relationships that can cause the disorder.
People with both ADHD and anxiety may benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help change negative thinking patterns and increase social skills. This kind of therapy is usually done with a therapist in person, but it is also available via video chat programs such as Skype.
Other methods that people with ADHD use to help manage their condition include supplements to their diet, such as omega-3 fatty acids and coenzyme Q10 and the elimination of certain foods from their diets. These methods aren't supported by solid scientific evidence and should only be used in conjunction with medical advice. Eliminating certain foods can cause harm to your overall health, especially if certain nutrients are lacking. It is best to treat ADHD and anxiety simultaneously for those with both conditions.