Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder that causes excessive hyperactivity and impulsivity. People with ADHD can also have difficulty concentrating on a particular task or being still for long periods of time. ADHD can affect both adults and children.
For many years, it was believed that children with ADD/ ADHD symptoms simply grew out of the problem by adulthood. However, new research has found that most children do not outgrow this disorder—many carry it with them into adulthood. In fact, more than 60% of those who were diagnosed with ADD/ ADHD in childhood will display at least some of the symptoms in adulthood.
Though some of their symptoms may change as they age, they will still exhibit symptoms that could be disruptive to their lives. In addition, many adults with ADD/ADHD might never be diagnosed with this disorder in childhood so they may have no idea that the problems faced by them are due to the disorder. It is now believed that up to 4 percent of the United States adult population have ADD/ ADHD signs in some form.
Signs and Symptoms of ADD/ ADHD
ADD and ADHD affect approximately 1 in 25 adults, there are approximately 3 million cases of ADD and ADHD per year. Some common symptoms of ADD and ADHD include:
- Feeling Anxious
- Constant Lack of Organization
- Sudden Outbursts
- Obsessive Activity
- Mood Swings
- Impulsive Activity
- Inability to Manage Time
- Passive Behavior
- Restlessness
Types of ADHD
ADHD can be divided into three types:
- Inattentive Type
- Hyperactive-Impulsive Type
- Combined Type
Medications for ADD/ ADHD
It’s quite difficult to successfully self-medicate if you have ADD/ ADHD, though some people attempt this when they first suspect they have the disorder. Due to the different types of ADD/ ADHD, a proper diagnosis must be made before treatment options can be discussed. In some cases, serotonin boosters may help while others benefit from a change in diet or increased exercise.
However, if the symptoms are serious enough, prescription medication is the best method of treatment for those with ADD/ ADHD. It may take a few different tries before the proper type of medication and dosage is determined and all prescription medications should be administered and monitored by a medical professional.
Some of the common medications used for ADD/ ADHD treatment are:
- Adderall – Adderall is a stimulant drug that combines amphetamine with dextroamphetamine to speed up the brain and increases dopamine levels.
- Concerta – Concerta is a stimulant drug similar to Adderall though its active ingredient methylphenidate is different. Concerta is only available in a slow-release tablet.
- Vyvanse – Vyvanse is a stimulant drug that is similar to Adderall but uses the active ingredient lisdexamfetamine. Some believe it to be less addictive than Adderall and is taken once in a day.
- Ritalin – Ritalin is a stimulant that uses the active ingredient methylphenidate to treat those with ADD/ ADHD. Ritalin is more fast-acting than Adderall.
- Dexedrine – Dexedrine is a psychostimulant drug used to treat ADHD. It works by increasing the number of neurotransmitters in the brain by affecting the central nervous system.
- Strattera – Strattera is a medication that inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine in the brain. Strattera can help patients with ADHD improve their focus while also reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Book your appointment online or visit our walk-in clinic to get started on your treatment journey with Mango Clinic.
Starting from November 11, 2023, getting controlled substances prescribed via telehealth requires patients to receive a referral letter from a primary care physician (PCP). Learn more here.