ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same treatments that work for children with ADHD are also effective for adults. These treatments include medicine as well as counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve some combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
The drugs increase brain chemicals that regulate attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate, available under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta as well as stimulants belonging to the amphetamine family like lisdexamphetamine. It is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants boost the body's metabolism and can lead to an increase in mental alertness and physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added to tea and coffee) and nicotine, as well as prescription medications that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In treating adhd in adults , stimulants can result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, aggression and paranoia. For some long-term use of stimulants may damage the the dopamine system in the brain and dampen feelings of pleasure. Stimulants are available in liquids, patches or pills. Cocaine, methamphetamines, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be obtained illegally and abused.
They are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain chemicals in the mind that boost concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. They are the first line treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. These medications may be a quick-acting formula used in the morning or a longer-acting drug that remains active in the body for most of the day such as Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin).
The health care team could also suggest psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or education. It is crucial to track the effectiveness of medicines over time. This is challenging.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
Around 15%-30% of children don't respond to stimulant medications and it's possible that this is true for adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to begin working, and it can take several weeks before you feel the effects. They don't come with the same adverse effects, and are a better choice if you cannot tolerate stimulants or fear addiction.