Treatment For Adults ADHD
Treatment for adults with adhd consists of counseling (psychotherapy) and medication. Medications used include stimulants, nonstimulants, and certain antidepressants. It can take some time to find the right medication and dose. It is important to have regular clinical monitoring.
People with ADHD frequently forget the time and obligations they make impulsive decisions and struggle to maintain relationships. Therapy and classes in communication can help.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used medication to treat ADHD in adults. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain that affect the ability to focus and impulsivity.
Stimulant drugs are used in around 70% of people with ADHD. They can reduce hyperactivity and fidgeting, improve efficiency, and aid people to finish tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can cause serious side effects. Some of them include loss of appetite headaches, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. These effects usually fade over time. It is crucial to take stimulant medications in a controlled manner. That means taking it three or four times per day and not missing doses. It's also important to take the same dose each time and not overdose. People who do not use their medication correctly may develop a resistance.
Most stimulants are classified into two drug classes which are amphetamines and the methylphenidates. Methylphenidates are the most popular and have less side effects than amphetamines. They work by increasing levels of norepinephrine. This chemical helps people to think clearly and control impulses. Amphetamines are stronger than methylphenidates, and could cause more negative side effects, including weight loss, dry mouth as well as a high heart rate, and elevated blood pressure.
Long-acting stimulant drugs are the standard for treatment of ADHD in adults. These last up to 24 hour. People who regularly use them discover they are able to gain better control of their focus, attention and the impulsivity. They also help them feel more relaxed and calm. Most patients who are prescribed these medication prefer them over short-acting medicines that are only taken as needed and usually last for between four and six hours. These medications are a great choice for people who forget to take their medication on a regular basis throughout the day or worry about not taking it at work or at school.
Non-stimulant medicines for ADHD take longer to begin working than stimulants. treating adult add can be utilized as a test to find the right medication for you, or in conjunction with stimulants. They don't pose the same addiction or dangers of abuse as stimulants however they can cause problems like irritability and insomnia. Examples of these drugs include atomoxetine (Strateva) and bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for ADHD for adults is a form of therapy that can help improve self-esteem, organizational skills, and relationships. It focuses on changing negative thoughts that can cause poor behavior and acquiring strategies for coping. This type of CBT usually is conducted in groups.
A research study found that when those with ADHD took part in an CBT program they were able to organize and their social and work life. It also decreased symptoms like impulsivity as well as depression.
Counseling for marital and family issues can help the spouses or the partners of those suffering from ADHD learn how to help their loved ones without blaming them for the problems caused by their ADHD. It can help them learn how to manage conflicts by being more transparent about their expectations and requirements.