The Most Common ADD Treatments For Adults Debate Isn't As Black And White As You Might Think ADHD Treatments For Adults

Many of the same therapies that work for children suffering from ADHD also treat adults. These treatments include medication and counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. They can also involve the combination of these therapies.

Stimulant Medicines

These medications work by increasing the availability of certain brain chemicals that help control self-regulation and attention. They include methylphenidate 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 Medications


Stimulants are drugs that boost the body's systems and can result in greater mental alertness and increased physical activity. These include legal substances like caffeine (added to coffee and tea) and nicotine, as well as prescription drugs used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) as well as narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses of stimulants, they can trigger overstimulation which can cause anxiety, heart palpitations and high blood pressure. They can also trigger aggression and paranoia. For some, long-term usage of stimulants can harm the the brain's dopamine system, which can reduce pleasure feelings. Stimulants are available in pills, liquids or patches. In the absence of legality, abused stimulants include cocaine, methamphetamines and amphetamines.

The drugs in this class are also called central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and work by increasing the quantity of certain chemicals in the brain which improve concentration, reduce fatigue and increase alertness. Adults suffering from ADD and ADHD are treated first with these drugs. These medicines may be a quick-acting formula that is taken in the morning, or a more prolonged-acting medication that remains active throughout the duration of the day. Examples include the lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse) or methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin).

The health care team could also recommend psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy or education. Monitoring the effectiveness of medication over time is crucial and can be a complex task.

adult adhd treatments -stimulant Medicines that are not stimulants

Around 15% to 30% of children don't respond to stimulant medications and it's possible that this is true for adults as well. Non-stimulant drugs take longer to work and can take up to several weeks to feel any effects. They do not have the same side effects and are a better option for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or fear addiction.