ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that are effective for children with ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. These treatments could include a combination.
Stimulant Medications
The drugs increase brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. iampsychiatry include methylphenidate, sold as Ritalin and Concerta, and stimulants in the amphetamine family, such as lisdexamphetamine. This is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are medications that boost the body's systems and may increase mental alertness and more physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, as well as prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can create over-stimulation, which can cause anxiety heart palpitations, hypertension, paranoia and aggression. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system of the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of satisfaction. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine and amphetamines.
The medications in this class are also called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals which improve concentration, reduce fatigue, and improve alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first with these drugs. They can be a short-acting formula used in the morning or a longer-acting medicine that remains active throughout the duration of the day. Examples include Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin, Concerta).
The health care team could also suggest psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or education. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is crucial and can be a complex task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
About 15% to 30% of children do not respond to stimulant medication, and this is likely applicable to adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to work and could take as long as several weeks before you feel any effects. However, they don't carry the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants, and could be a better option for those who are unable to tolerate the effects of stimulants or are worried about addiction.
