ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that work for children suffering from ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medication and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They may also involve the combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
These medications work by increasing brain chemicals that control self-regulation and attention. They include the chemical methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants belonging to the amphetamine group like Lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the body's systems and may result in greater levels of alertness in the mind and greater physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to tea and coffee) and nicotine, as well as prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants they can trigger overstimulation which can lead to anxiety, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. They may also cause aggression and anxiety and. For some, long-term usage of stimulants can harm the functioning of the brain's dopamine system, which can decrease pleasure-seeking feelings. Stimulants can be taken in pill form, liquids or patches that go on the skin. Cocaine, methamphetamines, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be purchased from a criminal and then used.
The drugs in this class are known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They work by increasing the quantity of certain brain chemicals which improve concentration, reduce fatigue and increase alertness. Adults with ADD and ADHD are treated first with these medications. They may be a quick-acting formula 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 may also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. It is important to monitor the effectiveness of medication over time. This can be challenging.
adult adhd treatments -stimulant Medications
Around 15%-30% of children don't respond to stimulant drugs and it's possible that this is true for adults too. Non-stimulant medications take longer to begin working, and it can take a few weeks before you begin to notice the effects. However, they don't carry the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants and can be a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate these medications or are concerned about addiction.