ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that work for children suffering from ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy), and life skills training. They could also include the combination of these treatments.
Stimulant Medications
The drugs increase brain chemicals that regulate attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate sold as Ritalin and Concerta and stimulants from the amphetamine family such as lisdexamphetamine. This is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are drugs that speed up the body's systems and can increase levels of alertness in the mind and greater physical activity. They include legal substances like caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, as well as prescription medications used to treat attention-deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy, and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may cause over-stimulation and lead to anxiety heart palpitations, high blood pressure as well as paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine receptors in the brain to malfunction and decrease feelings of satisfaction. The stimulants are available in pills, liquids, or patches. Cocaine, methamphetamines, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be obtained from a criminal and then used.
The drugs in this class are also called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and work by increasing the quantity of certain chemicals in the brain that improve concentration, decrease fatigue and increase alertness. They are the first line treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. made my day may be a quick-acting formula that is taken in the morning, or a longer-acting drug that is active throughout the course of the day such as Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin).
The health care team could also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or educational. Monitoring the effectiveness of medication over time is vital, and can be an extremely complex process.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15%-30% of children do not respond to stimulant medication and this is probably true for adults too. Non-stimulant medications take longer to take effect and it may take several weeks to notice any effects. They do not have the same adverse effects, and are a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.