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https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/adhd-treatment-for-adults/ For Adults Adults can benefit from the same treatments that children receive. These treatments include counseling, medication (psychotherapy) as well as life skills training. They could also include the combination of these treatments. Stimulant Medications The drugs increase the amount of certain brain chemicals that help control attention and self-regulation. They include methylphenidate, which is 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 speed up the body and can cause increased mental alertness and physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added to tea and coffee) and nicotine, and prescription medications that treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety, heart palpitations, hypertension, paranoia and aggression. Long-term stimulant use can cause the dopamine receptors in the brain to malfunction and reduce feelings of pleasure. The stimulants are available in pill form, liquids or patches that are applied to the skin. Cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines are stimulants which can be gotten illegally and used to abuse. They are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by increasing certain chemicals in the mind which improve concentration, reduce tiredness and increase alertness. Adults with ADD and ADHD are treated first with these medications. The medications are available in the form of a morning-only formulation or a longer-acting formulation that remains active throughout the day, for example the methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine. The health care team may also recommend psychosocial interventions such as education, psychotherapy or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medication over time is vital, and can be a complex task.
About 15% to 30% of children do not respond to stimulant medication, and this is likely true for adults too. Non-stimulant medicines are slower to begin working, and it can take several weeks before you feel the effects. They don't come with the same negative side effects and are a better choice if you cannot tolerate stimulants or fear addiction. |
