ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication for adults. Short-acting stimulants are preferred over long-acting stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
Atomoxetine is usually prescribed when patients are unable to take methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine. It increases the amount of noradrenaline that is present in brain cells, which helps with concentration and controlling impulsive behavior.
Stimulants
Stimulants are one of the most popular treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. They improve focus, decrease anxiety, and manage impulsive behavior. They are effective by boosting and stabilizing the levels of chemical known as neurotransmitters in the brain. The first choice stimulants are methylphenidate and amphetamines. They are available in liquid, tablet and chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes and last about three hours. Intermediate-release pills last longer, between six and eight hours. Once daily, long-acting adhd medication pregnancy and tablets can last for up to 16 hrs.
Stimulation can cause side effects, such as insomnia (a racing mind) headaches, jitters and stomach upset. It can also increase heart rate or blood pressure, which is dangerous in the event that you already have heart problems.
Adults with ADHD may find relief through other treatments and medications that target their specific issues. These include nonstimulants, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other drugs.
Nonstimulant medication works differently than stimulants for people suffering from ADHD. It can take longer to start working but it is usually well-accepted. It is often combined with stimulants by healthcare providers to maximize the effects and minimize any negative side negative 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 improve attention and control impulsive behaviors. They're not as fast-acting as stimulants and are less efficient, but they may work better for some people.
Many people suffering from ADHD find that lifestyle changes can help reduce their symptoms, including getting enough sleep and following an established schedule. A healthy diet can help. People suffering from ADHD should follow a well-balanced diet and avoid eating foods high in fat, sugar or artificial ingredients.
Adults suffering from ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy) that can assist them in learning how to control their behavior and manage anger and stress. Individual therapy can also aid in dealing with emotional issues such as low self esteem, feelings of shame or embarrassment relating to past failures in school or at work.
Counseling for families and couples can also help those with ADHD. It can help them learn techniques to improve communication and problem solving and also address problems in relationships that may contribute to the disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be beneficial to people suffering from ADHD and anxiety. It can help change negative thinking patterns and help to improve social skills. This kind of therapy is generally done by a therapist in person, however it can be provided via video chat programs like Skype.
Some people suffering from ADHD also take supplements in their diets such as omega-3 fatty acids and coenzymeQ10 for managing their condition. They might also cut out certain foods from their diets. However, these strategies don't have strong scientific support 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's recommended to treat both ADHD and anxiety simultaneously for those with both conditions.