Treatment For Adults ADHD
Counseling (psychotherapy), and medication are used to treat people suffering from adhd. The medications used include stimulants, nonstimulants, as well as certain antidepressants. It can take some time to determine the appropriate medication and dose. Regular clinical monitoring is important.
People with ADHD often forget obligations and appointments, make impulsive decisions and have trouble maintaining relationships. Therapy and communication classes can be helpful.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the levels of chemical in the brain called neurotransmitters, which affect attention and impulsivity.
Around 70% of people who suffer from ADHD respond to stimulant medication. They can reduce fidgeting and hyperactivity, improve the organization of people and help them complete their tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can also have negative side effects that are serious. Some of them include a loss of appetite headaches, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. These effects usually go away over time. It is essential to use stimulant medications in a controlled manner. This means taking it at least three or four times per day and not missing doses. It is essential to take the same dosage every time, and to avoid overdose. If you don't take your medication properly may develop resistance to it.
Most stimulants are classified into two drug classes: amphetamines and methylphenidates. treatment for adults with add are the most common and have fewer side effects than amphetamines. They function by increasing levels of norepinephrine, a chemical that helps people think clearly and control their impulses. Amphetamines can be a bit more powerful than methylphenidates. They can cause more side effects, including weight loss, dry mouth as well as a high heart rate, and elevated blood pressure.
Long-acting stimulant medications are the norm for treatment of ADHD in adults. They can be used for up to 24 hours. People who regularly use them find they can get better control over their focus, attention, and impulse control. They also help people feel more relaxed and calm. They are preferred by a majority of patients over the short-acting medications that can be only taken as required 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 not taking it at work or at school.
Non-stimulant drugs for ADHD take longer to start working than stimulants. They can be used as a test to find the right medication for you, or in combination with stimulants. They don't carry the same danger of abuse and addiction as stimulants, however they can still cause problems like insomnia or irritability. These medications include atomoxetine, bupropion and Strateva.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD in adulthood is a form of talk therapy which can improve self-esteem, relationships, and organizational skills. It concentrates on changing negative thinking that can lead to poor behavior and learning strategies for coping. This kind of CBT is usually conducted in a group setting.
A study showed that when those with ADHD participated in an CBT program that they improved their ability to manage their time and also their social and work lives. It also helped reduce symptoms like impulsivity as well as depressive feelings.
Counseling in the family and marriage can help spouses or partners with ADHD learn to support them without blaming the loved one for the problems caused by ADHD. It can help them learn how to reduce conflicts by being more transparent about their expectations and needs.
