ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same treatments that work for children with ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include medicine and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. treatment of add in adults could consist of a combination.
Stimulant Medications
These medications work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that help control attention and self-regulation. These include the methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants belonging to the amphetamine group, such as lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are substances that stimulate the body's systems and can increase mental alertness and increased physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, as well as prescription medicines used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety and heart palpitations, as well as high blood pressure as well as paranoia and aggression. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of satisfaction. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants which can be gotten illegally and abused.
The medications in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and work by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in the brain that improve concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. They are the first line treatment for adults suffering from ADD or ADHD. These medicines are available in a morning-only formula or in longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, like methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team could also recommend psychosocial interventions like psychotherapy or education. Monitoring the effectiveness of medication over time is crucial and can be a complex task.
Non-stimulant Medications
About 15%-30% of kids do not respond to stimulants and it's likely that this is true for adults as well. The non-stimulant medications take longer time to take effect and it could take as long as a few weeks for you notice any effects. They don't have the same side effects and are a better option when you are not able to take stimulants or are afraid of addiction.