ADHD In Adults (cont.)
Medications to treat adult ADHD
The same drug treatments proven to be efficacious in children appear to benefit adults with ADHD.
In the past, the first treatment offered to adults with ADHD has been stimulant drugs. Studies show that approximately two thirds of adults with ADHD who are given these medications show significant improvement in ADHD symptoms.
However, there are some difficulties in using stimulants to treat ADHD in adults. Stimulants are controlled substances and it is not uncommon for adults with ADHD to have or to have had problems with substance abuse. Short acting stimulants may wear off quickly and since adult patients administer the medication themselves, and usually have problems with forgetfulness, compliance can be problematic with multiple day dosing. Adults may experience significant difficulty in the evening when they do housework, pay bills, help children with homework or drive, or are tempted to use substances "to relax." Learn more about Stimulant therapy for ADHD.
Strattera is the only nonstimulant medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of ADHD, not just for children and adolescents, but for adults as well. This is the first medication to receive an FDA indication for treatment of ADHD in adults.
Strattera does not have abuse potential and does not require a special prescription.
Behavioral treatments for adult ADHD
Adult ADHD may be treated with one or more of the following:
- Individual cognitive and behavioral therapy to enhance self-esteem.
- Relaxation training and stress management to reduce anxiety and stress.
- Behavioral coaching to teach the person strategies for organizing home and work activities.
- Job coaching or mentoring to support better working relationships and improve on-the-job performance.
- Family education and therapy.
In-depth assessment, treatment planning, medication management, individual therapy, education and family support are all necessary to help the adult with ADHD function in new ways and build his or her self-esteem. Because ADHD is often associated with other conditions (such as specific learning disabilities, anxiety and mood disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder and chemical dependency), in-depth assessment is the first step in developing a comprehensive, customized treatment plan.
Next: Psychosocial behavior management strategies for ADHD »
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