ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same treatments that work for children with ADHD are also effective for adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. These treatments can include a combination.
treatment for adhd in adults work by increasing brain chemicals that regulate attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate sold as Ritalin and Concerta as well as stimulants belonging to the amphetamine family, such as lisdexamphetamine. This is marketed under the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants boost the body's metabolism and can lead to an increase in mental alertness and physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to tea and coffee) and nicotine, as well as prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can create over-stimulation, which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, hypertension, paranoia and aggression. For some, long-term use of stimulants may damage the the brain's dopamine system and decrease pleasure-seeking feelings. Stimulants are available in liquids, patches or pills. Methamphetamines, cocaine, and amphetamines are stimulants which can be obtained illegally and used to abuse.
The medications in this class are also known as central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They function by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals that improve concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. Adults with ADD and ADHD are treated first with these drugs. They can be a short-acting formula taken in the morning or a longer-acting medicine that stays active throughout the duration of the day, such as the lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin, Concerta).
The health care provider may also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medication over time. This can be challenging.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
About 15%-30% of kids don't respond to stimulant medications and it's possible that this is the case for adults as well. Non-stimulant drugs take longer to work and could take as long as a few weeks for you notice any effects. They do not have the same negative side effects and are a better option for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or are afraid of addiction.