Treatment For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy) and medications are utilized to treat adults suffering from adhd. Medications used include stimulants, non-stimulants, and antidepressants. Finding the right medication can take some time. It is essential to keep regular clinical monitoring.
People with ADHD tend to forget appointments and responsibilities. They are also prone to making decisions impulsively and have trouble maintaining relationships. Therapy and classes that teach how to communicate can be beneficial.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used medication to treat ADHD in adults. They increase the levels of chemical in the brain known as neurotransmitters, which affect attention and impulsivity.
Stimulant drugs are used in around 70% of those with ADHD. They can cut down on fidgeting and hyperactivity, increase organization, and help people complete their tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can cause serious adverse effects. Some of these side effects are headaches, loss of appetite and trouble sleeping. These side effects usually subside with time. It's important to use the stimulant medication properly. That means taking it three or four times a day and not skipping doses. It's important to take the exact same dose every time, and to avoid overdose. People who don't take their medication in a proper manner might develop resistance to it.
The majority of stimulants fall under one of two drug classes: methylphenidates and amphetamines. Methylphenidates are most commonly used and have fewer adverse effects than amphetamines. They work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine. This chemical assists people to focus and control impulses. Amphetamines are more powerful than methylphenidates and could cause more negative side effects. They can cause weight loss, dryness of mouth, elevated blood pressure, and a fast heart rate.
Long-acting stimulant medicines are the norm for treatment of ADHD for adults. They work for as long as 24 hours. Regular users can control their focus, attention, and impulsivity better. treatment of add in adults help people feel more calm and relaxed. These medications are preferred by most patients over short-acting drugs that can be taken only as needed and last up to four hours. These medicines are a great alternative for people who fail to take their medication on a regular basis throughout the day, or worry about forgetting it at work or at school.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants. They can be utilized as a test to determine the appropriate medication for you, or in combination with stimulants. These drugs don't have the same addiction or risk of abuse as stimulants, however they can cause problems such as insomnia and irritability. Examples of these drugs include atomoxetine (Strateva) and bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for ADHD in adults is a type of therapy that can aid in improving self-esteem, organizational skills, and relationships. It focuses on changing negative thoughts that contribute to bad behavior and teaches coping techniques. This type of CBT typically takes place in groups.
A study has found that when those with ADHD participated in an CBT program they were able to organize and their social and work lives. It also helped to reduce symptoms like impulsivity and depression.
Counseling in the family and marriage can help spouses or partners who have ADHD learn to support them without blaming the loved one for the problems caused by ADHD. It can also help them learn how to reduce conflict in their relationship by speaking more openly about each other's needs and expectations.