10 Things We All Hate About ADD Treatments For Adults

ADHD Treatments For Adults

Many of the same methods that work for children with ADHD are also effective for adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve some combination of these therapies.

Stimulant Medications

These drugs work by increasing the supply of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants from the amphetamine group including the amphetamine lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).

Stimulant Medicines

Stimulants are drugs that speed up the body's systems and may increase levels of alertness in the mind and greater physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added in tea and coffee) nicotine, prescription medications used to treat attention-deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may create over-stimulation, which can cause anxiety heart palpitations, hypertension, aggression and paranoia. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine system of the brain to malfunction, reducing feelings of pleasure. Stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches. The most commonly used and illegally obtained stimulants include copyright, methamphetamines and amphetamines.

Medications in this class are known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and work by increasing the quantity of certain chemicals in the brain that boost concentration, reduce fatigue, and boost alertness. They are the first line treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. They are available as an all-day formula or longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, for example the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.

The health care team might also suggest psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. It is crucial to track the effectiveness of medicines over time. This is challenging.

Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants

About 15%-30% of kids do not respond to stimulants, and read more it's likely that this is the case for adults as well. 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 do not have the same negative side effects and are a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.