ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that work for children with ADHD are also effective for adults. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. These treatments could include a combination.
Stimulant Medications
These medications work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling attention and self-regulation. More methods include the methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants belonging to the amphetamine group like Lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants speed up the body and can lead to increased alertness to the mind and physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added in tea and coffee) nicotine, as well as prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) and narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can create over-stimulation, which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, hypertension as well as paranoia and aggression. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of satisfaction. The stimulants are available as liquids, patches or pills. Cocaine, methamphetamines, and amphetamines are stimulants which can be obtained from a criminal and then used.
The medications in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the quantity of certain chemicals in the brain that boost concentration, reduce fatigue, and improve alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first with these drugs. They can be a formula that acts quickly that is taken in the morning, or a longer-acting medicine that remains active throughout the duration of the day such as the lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin).
The health care team could also recommend psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy or education. It is crucial to track the effectiveness of medication over time. This is an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant medications
Around 15%-30 percent of children do not respond to stimulant medication and this is probably applicable to adults as well. Non-stimulant medicines take longer to start working, and may take several weeks before you notice the effects. However, they don't have the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants and may be a better option for those who are unable to tolerate the effects of stimulants or are worried about addiction.