There's A Reason Why The Most Common ADD Treatments For Adults Debate Actually Isn't As Black And White As You Might Think
There's A Reason Why The Most Common ADD Treatments For Adults Debate Actually Isn't As Black And White As You Might Think
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ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that are effective for children with ADHD are also effective for adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments can include a combination.
Stimulant Medicines
These drugs work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling self-regulation and attention. They include the chemical methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants in the amphetamine class including the amphetamine lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants increase the body's energy and can cause an increase in mental alertness and physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, as well as prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety, heart palpitations, hypertension, aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of satisfaction. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids or patches that can be applied to the skin. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include copyright, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
Medications in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the quantity of certain brain chemicals that boost concentration, reduce fatigue and increase alertness. They are the first line 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 methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team can also recommend adhd treatment near me psychosocial interventions like psychotherapy or education. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is vital and can be an extremely complex process.
Non-stimulant Medications
Around 15%-30 percent of children do not respond to stimulant medications, and this is likely true for adults too. The non-stimulant drugs are slower to begin working, and may take a few weeks before you begin to notice the effects. However, they don't have the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants, and could be a better option in case you aren't able to take the effects of stimulants or are worried about addiction.