ADHD Treatments For Adults
Many of the same therapies that are effective for children with ADHD are also effective for adults. These treatments include medication, counseling (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. They could also include a combination of these therapies.
Stimulant Medicines
These medications work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling attention and self-regulation. They include methylphenidate, available under the brand names Ritalin and Concerta and stimulants from the amphetamine family, like lisdexamphetamine. It is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants increase the body's energy and can cause an increase in mental alertness and physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added in tea and coffee), nicotine, and prescription drugs used to treat attention-deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants can result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety heart palpitations, high blood pressure as well as paranoia and aggression. In some people long-term, use of stimulants can damage the the brain's dopamine system and dampen feelings of pleasure. Stimulants can be taken in pills, liquids, or patches that go on the skin. In the absence of legality, abused stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine and amphetamines.
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 improve alertness. They are the first line of treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. These medicines can be a short-acting formula that is taken in the morning, or a longer-acting medicine that remains active throughout the duration of the day, such as lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin).
The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. Monitoring add adult treatment of medications over time is important and can be an extremely difficult task.
Non-stimulant Medicines
Around 15%-30 percent of children do not respond to stimulant medication, and this is likely to be the case for adults as well. Non-stimulant medicines are slower to begin working, and can sometimes take a few weeks before you feel the effects. They don't come with the same adverse effects, and are a better option for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or fear addiction.