add treatments for adults For ADHD
The most common treatment options for add are medications and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). These medications include stimulants like amphetamine and methylphenidate, as well as nonstimulants like atomoxetine, viloxazine, guanfacine, and clonidine.
Stimulant medications should not be used by patients with active substance abuse issues, however they are an option for those who are in stable recovery. Combination therapy with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in brain synapses. This improves concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe medication from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. They may prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines which are similar medications. The type of medication prescribed will depend on a individual's biochemistry and how well they respond to the medication. It can take five to seven days before the full effects of the medication are evident. Improved concentration, better memory, better sleep, and a decrease in the tendency to be impulsive are all indications that the medication is working.
Some of the adverse effects include a decrease in appetite, trouble sleeping and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Patients with medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, should not take them. The stimulants have a high risk for abuse and are tightly controlled drugs. Only psychiatrists, paediatricians, neurologists, and in some situations, general practitioners may prescribe them. You can get them in the form or tablets, pills patches that can be applied to the skin or liquids.
Children and adolescents who take stimulants often suffer from weight loss and a lack of appetite. When the dose is excessive, they could also develop symptoms of tics. If this occurs, the doctor might reduce the dosage to prevent the drug from causing worsening of symptoms.
About 70% to 80% children and adults with ADHD are treated with stimulant medication. The majority of children and adolescents find that their symptoms improve when treated. This is particularly the case for children with parents, teachers, or caregivers that can report improvements.
Early use of stimulants may reduce the risk for drug use disorders later in life. Wilens, Katusic, and colleagues81,82, and Biederman, et al83 discovered that the use of stimulants reduces the risk of substance addiction disorders during the adolescent period. However this protective effect fades by early adulthood.
