treatment of add For Adults
Many of the same methods that are effective for children with ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. These treatments could comprise a mix of.
Stimulant Medications
The drugs increase the brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. They include the chemical methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants in the amphetamine class like lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).
Stimulant Medicines
Stimulants boost the body's metabolism and can lead to increased alertness to the mind and physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added in coffee and tea) nicotine, prescription drugs that treat attention-deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety, heart palpitations, high blood pressure, paranoia and aggression. In some people long-term use of stimulants can damage the functioning of the brain's dopamine system and dampen feelings of pleasure. The stimulants are available as pills, liquids or patches. In the absence of legality, abused stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.
These medications are also called central nervous system stimulants. They work by boosting certain brain chemicals which improve concentration, reduce tiredness and increase alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first by these medications. These medicines can be a formula that acts quickly used in the morning or a longer-acting drug that remains active in the body for most of the day. Examples include Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin, Concerta).
The health care team might also suggest psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. It is crucial to track the effectiveness of medicines over time. This is a difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants
About 15%-30% of kids do not respond to stimulants and it's likely that this is true for adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to start working, and it can take a few weeks before you notice the effects. They do not have the same side effects and are a better option when you are not able to take stimulants or are afraid of addiction.