ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that work for children with ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medicine and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments could include a combination.
Stimulant Medications
These medications work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that help control self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate available under the brand names 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 are substances that stimulate the body's systems and may increase levels of alertness in the mind and greater physical activity. treating add include legal substances such as caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, as well as prescription medicines used to 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 as well as paranoia and aggression. In some people long-term use of stimulants may damage the the brain's dopamine system, which can reduce pleasure feelings. Stimulants can be taken in pills, liquids or patches that go on the skin. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
These drugs are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by increasing certain chemicals in the mind that boost concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. Adults with ADD and ADHD are treated first with these medications. They are available as the form of a morning-only formulation or a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, for example methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team can also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or educational. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is crucial and can be a complex task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15% to 30% of children don't respond to stimulant medications and it's possible that this is the case for adults as well. Non-stimulant drugs take longer to work and could take as long as several weeks before you feel any effects. They do not have the same side effects and are a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or fear addiction.
