Home Search SiteMap Contact Us Forum Videos Store Physician Board
About Treatment for Adult ADHD
Advertisement
Advertisement
The following is a list of questions to ask your doctor About Treatment for Adult ADHD  as well as tips for preparing for these conversations.

What types of treatment are available for adult ADHD?

There are various treatment options available for ADHD. Theythey may include counseling, behavioral therapy, various medications or some combination of these options. It is important to consider all treatment possibilities and talk with your doctor about what would fit best into your lifestyle to maximize your chances of success.


What medications are available?

There are various drugs available for the treatment of adult ADHD. Most fall under the class of stimulant medications, meaning they activate the brain so it you can better focus of on tasks. The stimulants currently approved for the treatment of ADHD include Adderall XR® and Focalin XR®. Another option is Strattera®, which is not a stimulant drug.


What are the side effects of ADHD medications?

The potential side effects of using stimulant drugs include dry mouth, constipation, headaches, decreased appetite and difficulty falling asleep. These side effects, however, are generally short-lived and may disappear as the body adjusts to the drug.

Contrary to common belief, there is no evidence that these drugs are addictive, however they do have the potential for abuse. Stimulants can be used to get “high” and can be used by people who do not have ADHD to help them concentrate. Both of these examples are forms of abuse. Make sure to talk to your doctor for tips on preventing abuse.

How You Can Prepare for a Discussion With Your Doctor

  • Prepare a list of difficulties you have at work or at home
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for a second opinion regarding your treatment.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for further clarification if you don’t understand something
  • Ask your doctor if there is a local support group or therapist that can help