ADHD Medications For Adults
Stimulants are among the most commonly used ADHD treatment for adults. Short-acting stimulants are preferred to long-acting stimulants, such as the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
Atomoxetine is usually prescribed when people are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. It boosts the amount of noradrenaline inside brain cells that help control impulsive behaviors and improve concentration.
Stimulants
Stimulants are one of the most popular treatments for adults suffering from ADHD. They improve focus, decrease anxiety and control impulsive behaviors. They work by boosting and balancing levels of chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Amphetamines and methylphenidate are the most commonly used stimulants. They come in tablet, liquid or chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes and last approximately three hours. Intermediate-release pills take longer, ranging from six to eight hours. Once daily, long-acting best medication for adhd and tablets can last as long as 16 hours.
Stimulation may cause adverse effects such as headaches, stomach upset and jitters. It can also increase the heart rate or blood pressure which can be dangerous if you already have heart problems.
Adults with ADHD may find relief through other treatments and medications that target their specific symptoms. These include nonstimulants, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and other medications.
Nonstimulant medicines work differently than stimulants for those suffering from ADHD. It might take longer to kick in but it is generally tolerated. Healthcare providers often pair it with stimulants to enhance the effects and minimize adverse effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These drugs increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain to improve concentration and manage impulsive behavior. They're not as quick-acting as stimulants and can be less effective, but they might work better for some people.
Many people who suffer from ADHD say that lifestyle changes, like getting enough sleep and keeping an established routine, can reduce their symptoms. A healthy diet may make a difference. People with ADHD should eat a balanced diet and avoid eating foods high in sugar, fat or artificial ingredients.
Adults suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy) which can help them learn to manage their behavior and manage stress and anger. Individual talk therapy can also assist with emotional issues that may contribute to impulsive and self-destructive behavior like low self-esteem, or feelings of embarrassment or shame related to past failures at school and work.
Families and couples may benefit from therapy for ADHD. It can help them learn to improve communication, problem-solving skills and problems with relationships that can 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 abilities. This kind of therapy can be done in person with a therapist, but it can also be offered online via video chat applications like Skype.
Other methods that sufferers of ADHD utilize to manage their condition include supplements to their diet, such as omega-3 fatty acids and coenzyme Q10, as well as the removal of certain foods from their diets. These methods are not backed by solid scientific proof and should only be used in conjunction with medical advice. Also, removing foods can be harmful to your health, particularly if you're deficient in some nutrients. If you suffer from both ADHD and anxiety, it's a great idea to seek treatment for both disorders at the same time.