Twenty Myths About ADD Treatments For Adults: Busted ADHD Treatments For Adults

Adults can benefit from the same treatments that children receive. These treatments include medication as well as counseling (psychotherapy) and life skills training. These treatments may include a combination.

Stimulant Medications


These medications work by increasing the brain chemicals that control attention and self regulation. They include methylphenidate (marketed as Ritalin, Concerta) and stimulants in the amphetamine class, such as the amphetamine lisdexamphetamine (marketed as Adderall, Vyvanse).

Stimulant Medicines

Stimulants increase the body's energy and can lead to increased mental alertness and physical activity. They include legal substances such as caffeine (added in coffee and tea), nicotine, and prescription medications used to treat attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and narcolepsy and hyperactivity. In large doses, stimulants may result in over-stimulation and cause anxiety, heart palpitations, high blood pressure as well as paranoia and aggression. In treat adult adhd -term, use of stimulants can damage the functioning of the brain's dopamine system, which can dampen feelings of pleasure. Stimulants are available in pills, liquids or patches that go on the skin. Cocaine, methamphetamines, and amphetamines are stimulants that can be obtained from a criminal and then used.

These drugs are also known as central nervous system stimulants. They work by increasing certain brain chemicals that improve concentration, decrease fatigue, and boost alertness. Adults with ADD and ADHD are treated first with these medications. The medications are available in an all-day formula or longer-acting formulations that are active throughout the day, like methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine.

The health care provider may also recommend psychosocial interventions such as psychotherapy, education or coaching. Monitoring the effectiveness of medication over time is vital and can be a complex task.

Non-stimulant Medicines

Around 15% to 30% of children don't respond to stimulant drugs, and it's likely that this is true for adults as well. Non-stimulant medications take longer to start working, and it can take a few weeks before you feel the effects. They don't come with the same adverse effects, and are a better choice for those who are unable to tolerate stimulants or fear of addiction.