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ADHD Treatments For Adults

Many of the same therapies that work for children with ADHD can also be used to treat adults. These treatments include medication and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training.  I Am Psychiatry  can also involve the combination of these treatments.

Stimulant Medicines

These drugs work by increasing the supply of certain brain chemicals that aid in controlling attention and self-regulation. They include methylphenidate, sold as Ritalin and Concerta, and stimulants in the amphetamine family, like lisdexamphetamine. It is known by the brand name Adderall and Vyvanse.

Stimulant Medications

Stimulants are medications that boost the body's systems and may increase levels of alertness in the mind and greater physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, and prescription medications used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants, they can cause overstimulation, which can lead to anxiety, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. They can also trigger anxiety and paranoia. In some people, long-term use of stimulants can damage the functioning of the brain's dopamine system and dampen feelings of pleasure. Stimulants can be taken in pill form, liquids or patches that can be applied to the skin. The most commonly used and illegally obtained stimulants include methamphetamines, cocaine and amphetamines.

Medications in this class are called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants. They work by increasing the amount of certain brain chemicals that improve concentration, decrease fatigue and increase alertness. They are the initial line of treatment for adults with ADD or ADHD. These medicines are available in the form of a morning-only formulation or a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, for example methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.

The health care team could also suggest psychosocial interventions, such as psychotherapy or education. It is essential to evaluate the effectiveness of medication over time. This is a difficult task.

Non-stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants

Around 15% to 30% of children do not respond to stimulants and it's likely that this is true for adults too. Non-stimulant medications are slower to begin working, and can sometimes take several weeks before you feel the effects. However, they don't have the same risk of side effects as stimulants and can be a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate them or are worried about addiction.