ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same methods that are effective for children with ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medicine as well as counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They could also include the combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
These drugs work by increasing brain chemicals that regulate self-regulation and attention. These include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants in the amphetamine class including lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants speed up the body and can cause increased alertness to the mind and physical activity. These include legal substances such as caffeine (added in tea and coffee), nicotine, and prescription drugs that treat attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants, they can trigger overstimulation which can result in anxiety, heart palpitations and high blood pressure. They can also trigger anxiety and paranoia. In some people long-term, use of stimulants may damage the the dopamine system in the brain and reduce pleasure feelings. Stimulants are available in pills, liquids or patches. Illegally obtained and abused stimulants include copyright, more info methamphetamines and amphetamines.
They are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain brain chemicals that improve concentration, decrease fatigue and improve alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first with these medications. They are available as the form of a morning-only formulation or longer-acting formulations that remain active throughout the day, like methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.
The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions like psychotherapy or education. Monitoring the effectiveness of medications over time is vital and is an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medications
Around 15%-30% of children don't respond to stimulant drugs and it's possible that this is the case for adults too. Non-stimulant medications take longer to kick in and can take up to several weeks to notice any effects. They do not have the same adverse effects, and are a better option for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or fear of addiction.