ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are the most frequently used ADHD medication for adults. Long-acting stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine are more popular than short-acting ones.
Atomoxetine is typically prescribed when patients are unable to take methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine. It increases the amount of noradrenaline in brain cells, which helps with concentration and controlling the impulsive behavior.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. They improve focus, reduce anxiety and control impulsive behaviors. They work by increasing and balancing the levels of chemicals called neurotransmitters in the brain. Amphetamines and methylphenidate are among the most popular stimulants. They come in liquid, tablet or chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants kick in between 30 and 45 minutes and last for approximately three hours. Intermediate-release pills last longer, between six and eight hours. Long-acting capsules and tablets, taken once a day, last up to 16 hours.
The stimulation can trigger adverse effects such as headaches, jitters and stomach upset. It may also increase blood pressure or heart rate which can be dangerous if you already have heart problems.
Adults with ADHD might find relief using other medications and therapies that target their specific symptoms. These include nonstimulants as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Nonstimulant medication is different from stimulants to help people with ADHD. It can take longer to start working, but it is generally well-accepted. Healthcare professionals often combine it with stimulants to enhance the effects and reduce side effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These drugs boost dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps improve attention and control an impulsive behaviour. They're not as rapid-acting as stimulants, and may be less effective, but they might be more effective for certain people.
Many people with ADHD say that lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep and maintaining an established routine, can alleviate their symptoms. A healthy diet may make a difference. People with ADHD must eat a balanced diet and avoid eating foods high in sugar, fat or artificial ingredients.
Adults with ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy) which can help them learn to manage their behavior and deal with stress and anger. Individual talk therapy may also help with emotional issues, such as low self-esteem, feeling of shame or embarrassment due to past failures in school or at work.
Families and couples may also benefit from a program of counseling for ADHD. It can help them learn how to improve their communication, problem-solving abilities and problems with relationships that can contribute to the disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be beneficial for people with ADHD and anxiety. It can help change negative thinking patterns and help to improve social abilities. here of therapy usually takes place by a therapist in person, however it can be provided online through video chat programs like Skype.
Other treatments that some sufferers of ADHD utilize to manage their condition include supplements to their diet such as omega-3 fatty acids and coenzyme Q10, and eliminating certain foods from their diets. However, these strategies do not have a strong scientific basis and shouldn't be undertaken without medical guidance. Cutting out foods can also be harmful to your overall health, especially when certain nutrients aren't present. For people with both ADHD and anxiety, it's a good idea to seek treatment for both conditions at the same time.