ADHD Medications For Adults
Adults are the most likely to take stimulants as ADHD medications. Long-acting stimulants such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine are preferred over shorter-acting ones.
Atomoxetine may be prescribed to people who are in a position to not or are unwilling to take methylphenidate or Lisdexamfetamine. It boosts the amount of noradrenaline in brain cells, which helps manage impulsive behaviors and improve concentration.
Stimulants
Adults with ADHD are typically treated by stimulants. They improve focus, manage impulsive behavior and reduce anxiety. They are effective by boosting and managing the levels of chemicals called neurotransmitters in the brain. Amphetamines as well as methylphenidate are the first choice stimulants. They are available in liquid, tablet or chewable forms. Short-acting stimulants kick in 30 to 45 minutes, and last for approximately three hours. Intermediate-release pills last longer, between six and eight hours. Once daily, long-acting pills and tablets can last as long as 16 hours.
Stimulation can cause side effects like trouble sleeping (a racing mind) and headaches, jitters and stomach upset. It can also raise the heart rate or blood pressure which can be dangerous when you already have heart problems.
Adults with ADHD can find relief from other medications and therapies that target their specific issues. They include nonstimulants and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Nonstimulant medications work differently than stimulants for people suffering from ADHD. It might take longer to start working but it is generally well tolerated. Healthcare providers often pair it with stimulants to boost the effect and minimize side effects.
The main nonstimulant medicines for adults with ADHD are norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic agonists. non prescription adhd medication increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps improve attention and control an impulsive behaviour. They're not as quick-acting as stimulants and can be less efficient, but they may be more effective for certain people.
Many people with ADHD discover that lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms, which includes sleeping enough and adhering to the same routine. A healthy diet may be beneficial. People suffering from ADHD should consume healthy, balanced meals and avoid foods that are high in sugar, fats or artificial ingredients.
Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy (talk therapy) that can assist them in learning how to control their behavior and manage stress and anger. Individual therapy can help with emotional issues that can lead to self-destructive or impulsive behavior such as low self-esteem, or feelings of shame or embarrassment due to past failures at school and work.
Families and couples can benefit from therapy for ADHD. It can help them learn how to improve communication, problem-solving skills and problems with relationships that can contribute to the disorder.
managing adhd without medication with both ADHD and anxiety may benefit from cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) which can help to change negative thinking patterns and improve social skills. This kind of therapy usually takes place with a therapist in person, although it can be offered online through video chat programs like Skype.
Other methods that people with ADHD utilize to manage their condition include supplements to their diet, such as omega-3 fatty acids and coenzyme Q10, as well as the elimination of certain foods from their diets. However, these methods aren't supported by scientific research and shouldn't be attempted without medical advice. Additionally, cutting out certain foods that contain sugar can be harmful to your health, particularly when you're lacking certain nutrients. It's recommended to treat both ADHD and anxiety at the same time for those with both conditions.