Adult ADHD Medication
If changes to the environment aren't enough to help you succeed in school or at work you could be able to benefit from medication. These drugs can be long-acting or short-acting and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) and amphetamines salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medications prescribed. If you do not have any other condition that requires an additional medication, stimulants are usually prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the activity of brain areas that control attention and behavior. They increase concentration, to focus the mind and decrease impulsive behaviour. They are also known as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be legally taken with the prescription of ADHD medicines. However, they are commonly taken recreationally as illicit drugs like cocaine and methamphetamines to boost energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
You might be familiar with the brand name Ritalin, which is the most commonly used stimulant for treating ADHD. It boosts activity in the brain areas that regulate attention and behavior, which helps improve concentration and reduces impulsive and hyperactive behaviour. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets that are taken 2 or 3 times a day, or as modified-release capsules that release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates specific areas of the brain to improve concentration, helps focus the mind and decrease impulse-driven behavior. It is typically prescribed to teenagers, adults, and children over 5 years old in the event that methylphenidate doesn't help. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically consumed in three or more doses daily. Atomoxetine differs from the other medications mentioned above and is offered to teenagers, adults and children (aged 5plus) who cannot use the methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to negative side effects or for other reasons. It is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain, transferring messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and impulse control. It is taken once daily as a tablet, or as an oral solution.
Many randomized controlled studies as and observational studies have been conducted to study the advantages and risks associated with drug treatment of adult adhd. These studies have compared different treatments to placebos or other medications, but not all included head-tohead studies. This study blends the results of these studies using a method called network meta-analysis. This is the biggest study of ADHD to date, and it strengthens NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults with ADHD.
adhd treatment without medication show that a large percentage of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from taking medication. But it is important to consider the risks and benefits of taking the medication. Discuss this with your doctor and, if necessary, take steps to manage symptoms by using other treatments such as therapy or lifestyle changes. It is also important to recognize any medical condition which could trigger or exacerbate symptoms similar to ADHD, like sleep apnea and narcolepsy, thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. In order to determine the causes that could be causing symptoms, a thorough history and examination is necessary. Patients with a history of excessive alcohol or drug use should be treated with extreme caution. Referral to a specialist may be necessary. Patients who have a history of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems must be assessed more thoroughly and referred to specific tests and evaluations as necessary. This could include a more thorough history of the family members of the patient, since genetic factors are known to play a role in ADHD.