ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are among the most commonly used ADHD treatment for adults. Short-acting stimulants are preferred over long-acting stimulants, such as lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
Atomoxetine is typically prescribed when people are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. It increases the amount of noradrenaline found in brain cells, which assists in focusing and controlling the impulsive behavior.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used medicines for adults with ADHD. They improve focus, reduce anxiety, and manage impulsive behavior. They work by increasing and balancing levels of chemical in the brain called neurotransmitters. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are the most popular stimulants. They are available in tablet, liquid and chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants kick in 30 to 45 minutes and last for about three hours. Intermediate-release pills take longer, ranging from six to eight hours. Once daily, long-acting add adhd medications and tablets can last as long as 16 hours.
Stimulation can cause side effects, such as insomnia (a racing mind) headaches, jitters and stomach upset. It can also increase blood pressure or heart rate, which can be dangerous when you suffer from heart issues.
Adults with ADHD can find relief from other treatments and medications that address their specific symptoms. These include nonstimulants and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Nonstimulant medications are different from stimulants for people suffering from ADHD. It could take longer to start working but it is generally well tolerated. see this pair it with stimulants to enhance the effects and minimize adverse effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These drugs increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps improve attention and control impulsive behavior. They're not as rapid-acting as stimulants and are less effective, but they could be more effective for certain people.
Many people who suffer from ADHD are able to see that lifestyle changes can help reduce their symptoms, such as sleeping enough and adhering to an established schedule. A healthy diet can be beneficial. People suffering from ADHD should follow a well-balanced diet and avoid eating foods high in sugar, fat or artificial ingredients.
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy), which can help them learn to control their behavior and manage anger and stress. Individual therapy can aid in addressing emotional issues that might contribute to impulsive and self-destructive behavior like low self-esteem or feelings of shame or embarrassment due to previous failures at school or work.
Counseling for families and couples can also assist people with ADHD. It can help them learn techniques to improve communication and problem solving and also address issues in relationships that could contribute to the disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be beneficial to people suffering from ADHD and anxiety. It can change negative thinking patterns and help improve social skills. This type of therapy is usually done by a therapist who is present in person, however it can be offered via video chat software like Skype.
Other treatments that some sufferers of ADHD employ to manage their condition include supplements to their diet, such as omega-3 fatty acids, coenzyme Q10, as well as the removal of certain foods from their diets. However, these strategies do not have a strong scientific basis and shouldn't be attempted without medical advice. Eliminating certain foods can harm your overall health, particularly in the case of certain nutrients being deficient. It is best to treat ADHD and anxiety simultaneously for people with both conditions.