Doctor's Notes on Adult ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults)
Adult ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults) is defined as a neurodevelopmental disorder that includes primary problems with inattention and/or activity in adults (there is still some controversy about the definition to include substance use, sleep disorders, and others). Signs and symptoms include hyperactivity (inner restlessness, can't relax, unhappy when inactive), impulsivity (impatient, snap decisions, rapidly changing tasks), and inattention (disorganized, poor time management, misses parts of conversations).
Adult ADHD is thought to be caused by both genetics and life-experience factors that theoretically may trigger brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine to have abnormal levels at different brain locations.
What Are the Treatments for Adult ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults)?
ADHD in adults usually involves medication, education, skills training, and psychological counseling. Combinations of these treatments have the most success in decreasing symptoms. Examples of treatments are as follows:
- Medications
- Stimulants: amphetamine, methylphenidate
- Other medications: bupropion, atomoxetine
- Education and skills training: Learn about ADHD and how to cope with the problems ADHD may present to employers.
- Psychological counseling
- Cognitive behavioral therapy: Manage negative thinking patterns, depression, school, or work relationships.
- Marital counseling and family therapy: coping with stress, improving communications, problem-solving skills
You and your doctors may need to try several variations of treatments to find the best combinations of the above to manage your ADHD.
Adult ADHD : Symptoms & Test Quiz
QuestionWho is at greater risk for developing ADHD?
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Antidepressant Medications
There are many types of depression such as clinical depression, major depression, seasonal affective depression, dysthymia, and bipolar disorder. There are a variety of depression medications, and their effectiveness may vary from patient to patient. Examples of the types of depression medications include atypical antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Side effects, drug interactions, and warnings and precautions should be reviewed prior to taking any medication. -
SSRIs and Depression
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressants that affect serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical neurotransmitter. Side effects may include rash, low blood sugar, drowsiness, photosensitivity, and kidney or liver impairment. SSRI side effects include withdrawal-like symptoms in newborns, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and delayed ejaculation in men, photosensitivity (increased risk of sunburn), rash, low blood sodium levels, low blood sugar levels, drowsiness, and kidney or liver impairment.
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.