Treatment For ADHD The most effective treatments for adding are medication and psychosocial therapy (psychotherapy). treatment for adhd adults include stimulants such as methylphenidate, amphetamine and atomoxetine. treatment for adhd adults include non-stimulants, such as clonidine and Guanfacine. Patients who have active issues with substance abuse should not take stimulant medications. However, those who are in stable remission can consider them. Combination therapy with antidepressants (particularly SSRIs) is also an option. Stimulants Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine that are released between brain synapses. This improves concentration and decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. Most doctors prescribe stimulant medications to treat ADHD. They may recommend methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin) or amphetamines which are similar medications. The type of medicine prescribed depends on the biochemistry of each person and how they react to it. It can take five to seven days before the full effects of the medication become visible. The medicine will work if you notice improvements in your concentration, memory sleep, and impulsivity. Medications in this class can cause side effects, such as decreased appetite and trouble sleeping, and they can raise heart rate and blood pressure. Certain people with a medical condition, such as high blood pressure or heart disease, shouldn't take them. These are highly controlled drugs with a potential for abuse. Only psychiatrists, paediatricians, neurologists, and in certain situations general practitioners can prescribe them. They can be found in the form of tablets or pills, a patch that goes on the skin, or liquids. Children and adolescents who take stimulants are often affected by weight loss and a lack of appetite. They can also develop tics when the dosage is too high. In this instance the doctor will decrease the dosage to prevent the drug from causing more symptoms. Stimulant medication is used by about 70% to 80% of children and adults with ADHD. The majority of children and adolescents find that their symptoms get better when treated. This is particularly true for those who have parents, teachers or other caregivers that can report improvements. The early use of stimulants can reduce the risk of substance use disorders later in life. Wilens Katusic, Wilens, and colleagues81,82 and Biederman and colleagues83 discovered that treatment with stimulants reduces the risk of substance addiction disorders during adolescence. However the protective effect diminishes in the early years of adulthood.
