ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults are able to benefit from many of the same therapies as children. These treatments include medication and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They could also include a combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
The drugs increase the supply of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate, which is sold as Ritalin and Concerta and stimulants from the amphetamine family, like lisdexamphetamine. It is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants are substances that boost the body's systems and may cause higher mental alertness and increased physical activity. treating adult add include legal substances like caffeine (added to tea and coffee) and nicotine, as well as prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may create over-stimulation, which can cause anxiety heart palpitations, hypertension as well as paranoia and aggression. For some, long-term use of stimulants may damage the functioning of the brain's dopamine system, which can dampen feelings of pleasure. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches. In the absence of legality, abused stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Medications in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and work by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in the brain that improve concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. They are the initial line of treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. These medications may be a quick-acting formula that is taken in the morning, or a longer-acting drug that stays active throughout the duration of the day, such as lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin).
The health care team might also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is vital, and can be a complex task.
Non-stimulant Medications
Around 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulant medications This is also applicable to adults as well. The non-stimulant medications take longer time to take effect and it can take up to a few weeks for you begin to notice any effects. They don't come with the same negative side effects and are a better option for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.