treating add in adults For ADHD
The most effective treatments for adding are medication and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). The drugs include stimulants such as methylphenidate, amphetamine and atomoxetine. They can also be nonstimulants, like clonidine and Guanfacine.
Patients with active substance abuse issues are not advised to take stimulant medication. However, those who are in stable remission might consider them. Combination treatment with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine between brain synapses. This helps improve concentration and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe medications from the stimulant class to treat ADHD. They can prescribe methylphenidate (Concerta or Ritalin) or amphetamines. Both are similar drugs. The type prescribed will depend on a individual's biochemistry and how well they react to the medication. It could take anywhere from five to seven days before the full effects of the medication become apparent. Improvements in concentration, improved memory, better sleep and a decrease in impulse control are all indications that the medication is working.
Some of the side effects include a decreased appetite, difficulty sleeping, and an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Some people with medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, should not use these medications. The stimulants have a high risk for abuse and are tightly controlled drugs. Only paediatricians or psychiatrists or in certain cases general practitioners, may prescribe stimulants. They can be found in the form of tablets or pills or patches that go on the skin, or in liquids.
Children and adolescents who consume stimulants are often afflicted with appetite issues and weight loss. When the dose is too high, they may also develop the tics. If treating add in adults occurs, the doctor will reduce the dosage to stop the drug from leading to a worsening of symptoms.
The use of stimulant medications is for around 70 to 80 percent of adults and children with ADHD. Most children and young people notice that their symptoms improve with treatment. This is particularly true for those with parents, teachers, or carers who can observe improvements.
Early use of stimulants may reduce the risk for substance use disorders in later life. Wilens Katusic, Wilens, and colleagues81,82, and Biederman, et al83 discovered that the use of stimulants reduces the risk of substance use disorders during adolescence. However the protective effect diminishes as we enter early adulthood.