Treatment For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy) and medications are utilized to treat adults suffering from adhd. The medications used include stimulants, nonstimulants, and certain antidepressants. It may take time to find the right dosage and medication. It is important to have regular monitoring of your clinical condition.
People suffering from ADHD tend to forget appointments and responsibilities. They are also prone to making impulsive choices and have difficulty maintaining relationships. Therapy and classes in communication can be helpful.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most frequently used medication to treat ADHD in adults. They boost levels of chemicals in the brain, known as neurotransmitters, which affect the way we think and react.
About 70% of those with ADHD respond to stimulant drugs. They can decrease the amount of fidgeting and hyperactivity. They can also improve the organization of people and assist them in completing tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can have negative side effects that are serious. Some of them include weight loss headaches, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. These side effects usually subside with time. It is crucial to take stimulant medications correctly. That means taking it three or four times daily and not missing doses. It is essential to take the exact dosage each time, and to avoid overdose. If you don't take your medication in a proper manner can develop resistance to it.
adults adhd treatment of stimulants fall into one of two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates, which are the most popular stimulants, have fewer side-effects than amphetamines. They work by increasing levels of norepinephrine. This chemical aids people to focus and manage impulses. Amphetamines are more powerful than methylphenidates and can cause more adverse effects. They can cause weight loss, dryness of mouth, increased blood pressure, and a high heart rate.
Long-acting stimulant medicines are the standard for treatment of ADHD in adults. They last for up to 24 hours. Regular users can manage their focus, attention and impulsivity better. They can also make people feel more relaxed and calm. The majority of patients who are prescribed these medications prefer them to shorter-acting drugs, which can only be taken as needed and usually last for between four and six hours. These medications can be an excellent option for those who are struggling to remember to take their medication at regular intervals throughout the day, or who are worried about forgetting to take their medication while at work or school.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD take longer to begin working than stimulants. They are a good option as a first step to finding the right medicine for you, or be used in conjunction with stimulants. These medications don't carry the same addiction and abuse risks as stimulants but can still cause issues like insomnia and irritability. Examples of these drugs include atomoxetine (Strateva) and bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for ADHD in adults is a form of therapy through which you can aid in improving self-esteem, organizational skills and relationships. It focuses on changing the negative thoughts that cause bad behavior and teaches strategies for coping. This type of CBT is generally conducted in a group setting.
A study has found that when people suffering from ADHD participated in a CBT program they were able to organize and their social and work lives. It also helped reduce symptoms such as impulsivity and depression.
Family and marital counseling can help spouses or the partners of those suffering from ADHD learn how to help their loved ones without blame for problems that are caused by their ADHD. It can also teach them ways to reduce conflicts in their relationships by expressing more truthfully about their needs and expectations.