ADHD Treatments For Adults
Adults are able to benefit from many of the same treatments that children receive. These include medicine, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve the combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
These medications work by increasing brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate, which is available under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta and stimulants from the amphetamine family, like lisdexamphetamine. It is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants are medications that stimulate the body's system and may result in greater mental alertness and more physical activity. These include legal substances like 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 of stimulants they can cause overstimulation which can result in anxiety, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. They may also cause anxiety and anxiety and. In some people long-term use of stimulants may damage the the dopamine system in the brain and reduce pleasure feelings. Stimulants can be taken in pills, liquids, or patches that go on the skin. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be obtained illegally and abused.
Medications in this class are also called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in the brain which improve concentration, reduce fatigue and increase alertness. They are the first line of treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. The medications are available in a morning-only formula or in a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, for example lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
The health care team might also suggest psychosocial interventions such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is crucial and is a complex task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15% to 30% of children don't respond to stimulant drugs, and it's likely that this is true for adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to start working, and may take a few weeks before you notice the effects. However, they don't have the same risk of side effects as stimulants and may be a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate the effects of stimulants or are worried about addiction.