adult adhd diagnostic assessment and treatment Treatments For Adults

Many of the same treatments that are effective for children with Treating Adhd Without Medication also treat adults. These treatments include medicine as well as counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They may also involve a combination of these therapies.

Stimulant Medications

The drugs increase brain chemicals that control self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate sold under the names 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 Medicines

Stimulants boost the body's metabolism and can cause increased mental alertness 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 create over-stimulation, which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, hypertension, aggression and paranoia. For some, long-term use of stimulants may damage the functioning of the brain's dopamine system, which can decrease pleasure-seeking feelings. Stimulants can be taken in pill form, liquids or patches that go on the skin. The most commonly used and illegally obtained stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.

These drugs are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by increasing certain brain chemicals which improve concentration, reduce fatigue, and boost alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first by these drugs. These medicines may be a quick-acting formula used in the morning or a more prolonged-acting medication that stays active throughout the course of the day. Examples include lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta Ritalin, Concerta).

The health care team may also suggest psychosocial interventions such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medications over time. This can be an extremely difficult task.

Non-stimulant Medications

About 15%-30 percent of children do not respond to stimulant medications, and this is likely applicable to adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to kick in and could take as long as several weeks before you feel any effects. However, they don't have the same risk of adverse effects as stimulants and may be a better option in case you aren't able to take them or are worried about addiction.