12 Facts About ADD Treatments For Adults To Make You Look Smart Around Other People
ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same treatments that are effective for children with ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve some combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medications
The drugs increase brain chemicals that regulate attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate, which is available under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta, and stimulants in the amphetamine family, like lisdexamphetamine. It is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants increase the body's energy and can lead to increased mental alertness and physical activity. psychological treatment for adhd include legal substances such as caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, as well as prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants they can cause overstimulation which can lead to anxiety, heart palpitations and high blood pressure. They may also cause aggression and paranoia. Long-term use of stimulants can cause the dopamine system of the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of happiness. Stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches that are applied to the skin. Cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines are stimulants which can be purchased illegally and used to abuse.
The medications in this class are known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the quantity of certain brain chemicals that improve concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. Adults with ADD and ADHD are treated first with these medications. The medications are available in an all-day formula or longer-acting formulations that remain active throughout the day, like the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team might also suggest psychosocial interventions such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is important and is a complex task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulant medications, and this is likely to be the case for adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to begin working, and can sometimes take several weeks before you begin to notice the effects. However, they don't have the same risk of side effects as stimulants and can be a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate them or are worried about addiction.