ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults are able to benefit from the same therapies as children. adhd treatment in adults include medication and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments could include a combination.
Stimulant Medicines
The drugs increase the brain chemicals that control self-regulation and attention. These include the chemical methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants from the amphetamine group, such as lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants speed up the body and can cause an increase in mental alertness and physical activity. They include legal substances like caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants, they can cause overstimulation, which can lead to anxiety, heart palpitations and high blood pressure. They can also trigger aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of happiness. Stimulants are available in pill form, liquids or patches that are applied to the skin. Cocaine, methamphetamines, and amphetamines are stimulants which can be obtained illegally and abused.
They are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain brain chemicals that boost concentration, decrease tiredness and increase alertness. They are the first line treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. They may be a quick-acting formula that is taken in the morning, or a more prolonged-acting medication that stays active throughout the duration of the day, such as the lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin).
The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or education. It is important to monitor the effectiveness of medicines over time. This can be challenging.
Non-stimulant Medications
Around 15%-30% of children don't respond to stimulant medications, and it's likely that this is the case for adults too. The non-stimulant medications take longer time to take effect and it could take as long as several weeks to begin to notice any effects. They don't have the same adverse effects, and are a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.