Adult ADHD treatment: Treatment for Adult ADHD should be multifaceted and can include medications. The first line of medication treatment for adults with ADHD is prescribed stimulants, which actually work in reverse in people with ADHD and produce a calming effect in them.
The two stimulants most commonly used are methylphenidate and amphetamines. Currently, stimulants are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ADHD in adults and so are routinely prescribed "off label". Short-term studies have shown however, that the use of these stimulants in adults is generally safe when given under regular medical supervision.
The most common side effects of stimulants are insomnia, headaches, anxiety, loss of appetite, weight loss, and some cardiovascular effects.
Treatment with medication is individualized because different medications may be more or less effective in different people. What works for one adult may not work for another or may result in unacceptable side effects for a particular person. Different medications and dosages might have to be tried before finding just the right treatment for an individual.
Another important treatment aspect for adult ADHD is a variety of forms of psychotherapy. These can include:
Another important part of a treatment plan can be behavioral coaching, which helps an adult with ADHD to develop practical solutions to managing their symptoms and lead productive lives. This can include strategies to improve time management skills and that help identify, organize and prioritize activities and goals.
The list of treatments mentioned in various sources for Adult ADHD includes the following list. Always seek professional medical advice about any treatment or change in treatment plans.
The first step in getting correct treatment is to get a correct diagnosis. Differential diagnosis list for Adult ADHD may include:
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