ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that work for children suffering from ADHD also treat adults. These include medicine, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve the combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medications
These medications work by increasing the brain chemicals that control self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate, sold under the names Ritalin and Concerta as well as stimulants belonging to the amphetamine family, such as lisdexamphetamine. This is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants increase the body's energy and can result in increased alertness to the mind and physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, and prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants, they can trigger overstimulation which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. treating adults with adhd can also trigger anxiety and paranoia. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of pleasure. Stimulants are available in liquids, patches or pills. Cocaine, methamphetamines, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be obtained illegally and used to abuse.
They are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain chemicals in the brain which improve concentration, reduce tiredness and increase alertness. They are the first line of treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. These medications may be a quick-acting formula used in the morning or a more prolonged-acting medication that remains active throughout the duration of the day, such as Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin).
The health care team may also suggest psychosocial interventions, like psychotherapy or education. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medications over time. This is an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15% to 30% of children don't respond to stimulant drugs and it's likely that this is true for adults too. Non-stimulant medications take longer to start working, and it can take a few weeks before you begin to notice the effects. However, they don't carry the same risk of side effects as stimulants and may be a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate them or are worried about addiction.