ADHD Medications For Adults
Adults are the most likely to take stimulants as ADHD medications. does adhd medication work -acting stimulants are preferred to long-acting stimulants, such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
Atomoxetine can be prescribed to patients who are unable or unwilling to take methylphenidate or the lisdexamfetamine. It increases the amount of noradrenaline found in brain cells, which helps in focusing and regulating the impulsive behavior.
Stimulants
Adults with ADHD are usually treated by stimulants. They help improve focus, decrease anxiety, and manage impulsive behavior. They work by increasing and stabilizing the levels of chemical known as neurotransmitters within the brain. The first choice stimulants are methylphenidate and amphetamines. They are available in liquid, tablet or chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes and last for about three hours. Intermediate-release pills take longer, between six and eight hours. Once daily, long-acting pills and tablets can last up to 16 hours.
The stimulation can trigger adverse effects such as headaches, stomach upset and jitters. It can also raise blood pressure or heart rate, which can be dangerous if you have heart problems.
Adults with ADHD may find relief through other therapies and medications that address their specific issues. These include nonstimulants as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Nonstimulant medication is different from stimulants to help people with ADHD. It can take longer to begin working, but it is generally tolerated. Healthcare professionals often combine it with stimulants to enhance the effect and minimize side effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. These medications increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which help improve attention and control of impulsive behaviors. These medications aren't as effective as stimulants and they can be slower to take effect. However, for adhd anxiety medication , they might be more effective.
Many people with ADHD report that lifestyle changes, like having enough sleep and sustaining a regular routine, can help to reduce symptoms. A healthy diet may be beneficial. People with ADHD should follow a well-balanced diet and avoid eating foods that are high in fat, sugar or artificial ingredients.
Adults with ADHD can benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy) which can help them learn how to control their behavior and manage anger and stress. Individual therapy can also help with emotional issues like low self-esteem, feeling of shame or embarrassment related to failures at school or at work.
Families and couples may benefit from therapy for ADHD. It can teach them techniques to improve communication and problem-solving and also address problems in relationships that may contribute to the disorder.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be beneficial for people with ADHD and anxiety. It can alter negative thinking patterns and improve social skills. This kind of therapy is usually done by a therapist who is present in person, although it is also available online through video chat programs such as Skype.
Certain people with ADHD also use dietary supplements such as omega-3 fatty acid and coenzymeQ10 for managing their condition. They can also eliminate certain foods from their diets. These methods are not backed by solid scientific evidence and should only be utilized in conjunction with medical advice. Eliminating certain foods can harm your overall health, especially if certain nutrients are lacking. It's best to treat both ADHD and anxiety simultaneously for those with both conditions.