Although commonly diagnosed in childhood, ADHD carries into adulthood for many individuals. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that around 4 percent of adults have a diagnosis of ADHD. While stimulant medications are commonly used to treat ADHD symptoms in both children and adults, the only medication approved for use with adults is the non-stimulant Strattera.
Stimulants
Although no stimulants have been approved for the treatment of ADHD in adults, these drugs are the most commonly prescribed. Two types of stimulants, amphetamines and methlyphenidates, both work to increase levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These drugs help to increase attention and concentration while reducing impulsive behavior. The National Resource Center on ADHD reports that adults may need higher doses to achieve therapeutic effectiveness of these drugs, but that they appear to be safe for use in adults. Commonly prescribed stimulant medications include Adderall, Dexedrine, Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin, and Metadate. Side effects of these drugs are usually mild, including headaches, decreased appetite and anxiety.
Strattera
Strattera is the only medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat symptoms of ADHD in adults. It is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, which acts on levels of norepinephrine only in the brain. According to the National Resource Center on ADHD, this non-stimulant medication does not have the risk of abuse that stimulant drugs do; however, it may take a few weeks to become effective, whereas stimulants act immediately. Possible side effects may include trouble sleeping, nausea, reduced appetite, dizzy spells, urinary problems or cardiac complications.
Anti-depressants
Anti-depressants that act on norepinephrine in the brain have some success in treating the symptoms of ADHD. According to the National Resource Center on ADHD, tricyclic antidepressants, such as Norpramine, are effective for a 24-hour period and may be helpful for individuals with other anxiety and depression symptoms. However, these also take a few weeks to become effective and may have severe side effects, including cardiac problems. An atypical antidepressant, Wellbutrin, acts on dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. It has some moderate ability to impact ADHD symptoms and may help individuals also suffering from bipolar disorder.
