7 Easy Tips For Totally Rolling With Your ADD Treatments For Adults
ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that work for children suffering from ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve some combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medications
The drugs increase the brain chemicals that control self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants belonging to the amphetamine group including lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants increase the body's energy and can lead to increased mental alertness and physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, as well as prescription medications used to treat attention-deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In treatment for adults with add of stimulants they can cause overstimulation, which can lead to anxiety, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. They may also cause aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine receptors in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of happiness. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids or patches that can be applied to the skin. In the absence of legality, abused stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine and amphetamines.
These drugs are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain brain chemicals that improve concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. They are the initial line of treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. The medications are available in a morning-only formula or in longer-acting formulations that remain active throughout the day, like the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team can also suggest psychosocial interventions, like psychotherapy or education. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medications over time. This is a difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulants and it's likely that this is the case for adults as well. Non-stimulant medications are slower to begin working, and can sometimes take a few weeks before you notice the effects. But, they don't come with the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants and may be a better option if you can't tolerate these medications or are concerned about addiction.