ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that are effective for children with ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They could also include the combination of these treatments.
treating adult add work by increasing the brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate, which is sold under the names Ritalin and Concerta as well as stimulants belonging to the amphetamine family such as lisdexamphetamine, which is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants increase the body's energy and can cause increased mental alertness and physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, and prescription drugs that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants they can cause overstimulation which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. They may also cause anxiety and paranoia. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine system in the brain to malfunction, reducing feelings of happiness. Stimulants are available in liquids, patches or pills. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants which can be gotten from a criminal and then used.
The drugs in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They 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 with ADD or ADHD. They are available as an all-day formula or longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, such as lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
The health care provider may also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. Monitoring treating add in adults of medications over time is vital and is an extremely complex process.
Non-stimulant Medications
Around 15% to 30% of children do not respond to stimulants and it's likely that this is true for adults as well. Non-stimulant drugs take longer to work and may take several weeks to feel any effects. They don't come with the same adverse effects, and are a better choice if you cannot tolerate stimulants or fear addiction.