Treatment For Adults ADHD
Treatment for adults adhd includes counseling (psychotherapy) and medication. The drugs used include stimulants and nonstimulants, as well in certain antidepressants. Finding the right medication can take a while. It is important to have regular clinical monitoring.
People with ADHD often forget obligations and appointments, make impulsive decisions and have trouble maintaining relationships. Therapy and classes in communication can help.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They increase the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain that influence attention and impulsivity.
About 70% of people with ADHD respond to stimulant medication. They can reduce hyperactivity and fidgeting. They can also improve efficiency and help people finish tasks. They can also improve relationships. They can cause serious adverse effects. treating adhd in adults of them include weight loss headaches, nausea, and trouble sleeping. These side effects usually go away as time passes. It is essential to use stimulant medications in a controlled manner. That means taking it at least three or four times a day and not skipping doses. It's important to take the exact dose every time, and not to overdose. People who do not use their medication properly can develop resistance to it.
The majority of stimulants are classified into two classes of drugs amphetamines and methylphenidates. Methylphenidates are the most common and have fewer adverse effects than amphetamines. They work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine. This chemical helps people to think clearly and manage impulses. Amphetamines are stronger than methylphenidates, and could cause more side effects, including dry mouth, weight loss, a fast heart rate, and increased blood pressure.
Long-acting stimulant medications are the most common treatment of ADHD in adults. They last for up to 24 hours. Regular users can manage their focus, attention, and impulse control more effectively. They can also make people feel more relaxed and calm. Many patients who receive these medication prefer them over short-acting medications that can be taken when needed and typically last for up to four hours. These medicines can be an excellent option for those who struggle to remember to take their medications at regular intervals throughout the day, or who are concerned about not taking their medication while at work or school.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD take longer to begin working than stimulants. They can be useful as a first step to finding the right treatment for you, or be used in conjunction with stimulants. They don't carry the same danger of abuse or addiction as stimulants, however they can cause issues such as insomnia or irritability. Examples of these medications include atomoxetine (Strateva) and bupropion (Wellbutrin).
Cognitive behavioral therapy for ADHD in adulthood is a form of talk therapy which can improve relationships, self-esteem and organizational abilities. It focuses on changing negative thoughts that contribute to poor behavior and learning ways to cope. This kind of CBT is usually done in a group setting.
A study has found that those with ADHD who participated in a CBT program improved their ability to organize as well as their professional and social life. It also helped reduce symptoms such as impulsivity and depression.
Counseling for marital and family issues can help the spouses or partners of people with ADHD learn how to support their loved ones without blaming them for problems that are caused by their ADHD. It can help them understand how to manage conflicts by being more transparent about expectations and needs.