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ADHD Treatment For Adults – Stimulant Medication Stimulant medicines like methylphenidate or dextroamphetamine are generally considered first-line therapy for adult ADHD. These medications balance and increase levels of brain chemicals referred to as neurotransmitters. Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine or antidepressants can be prescribed if stimulants are not appropriate for the patient because of other health problems or side effects. These medications have a slower effect than stimulants, and can reduce impulsivity and lack of attention. Stimulants Stimulants increase brain neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine, which enhances concentration and decreases impulsivity as well as hyperactivity. These are the most common treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. There are a variety of stimulant drugs are available, and each has its own advantages and negative side negative effects. Long-acting medicines are ideal for most people, as they build up in the system over time. This minimizes the “ups and downs” caused by fluctuating levels of medication which can make symptoms worse as the drug wears off. The FDA has approved several ADHD medications, including methylphenidates and amphetamines (including Ritalin, Concerta and Concerta). Non-stimulants These medications can take longer to work however, they can aid in treating adult adhd. These medications are known as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors or alpha-2 adrenergic antagonists. evidence based treatment for adhd in adults are usually prescribed to treat high blood pressure, however they have been used for a long time “off-label”, to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are less likely than stimulants to cause addiction or other serious side effects because they do not impact the epinephrine receptor system. The effects of these medications last for up to 24 hours and are able to be taken every day to decrease impulsivity. Some people with ADHD have difficulty to tolerate stimulants due to their side effects. In these cases doctors may prescribe antidepressants along with stimulants in order to minimize adverse effects. These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine (Tofranil) and nortriptyline (Aventyl or Pamelor). Antidepressants come with more complex adverse effects than stimulants and are only used when other medications fail. Diet and exercise may help treat ADHD. All adults should eat healthy and balanced meals, but people suffering from ADHD are particularly in need of it. A healthy diet can help improve concentration, decrease the impulsive behavior, and decrease cravings for food. People suffering from ADHD should consult a doctor before making changes to their diet or eliminating any foods. Counseling Adults suffering from ADHD may benefit from psychotherapy or counseling. This type of therapy can help them learn how to manage their issues, and can teach skills to improve their lives. CBT is a type of therapy that adults suffering from ADHD have been proven to be effective. CBT is designed for changing negative thinking patterns and transforming them into positive ones. Family and marital therapy can be beneficial for adults with ADHD. Self-help techniques, such as increasing sleep routines and limiting the consumption of caffeine can also help reduce ADHD symptoms. People suffering from ADHD should consult their primary care doctor about referral to an ADHD specialist. A psychiatrist or therapist with experience in treating adults with ADHD can assist people in finding an approach to treatment that are effective for them. They can offer assistance and advice on managing ADHD at home, at school, or at work. They can also help parents or spouses understand how to better communicate with their child or partner who has ADHD and how to deal with the challenges of living with ADHD.