Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if environmental changes are not enough for you to be successful at work or school. They can be short or long-acting and include the family of methylphenidates (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication prescribed. They are the first choice in the event of a health issue that requires a different treatment.
Stimulants
Stimulants work by increasing activity in areas of the brain that regulate attention and behaviour. They help improve concentration, focus and focus and decrease impulse-driven behaviour. They can be legally prescribed as ADHD medications. However, they are frequently used recreationally as illegal substances like methamphetamines and copyright to increase energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
You might be familiar with the brand name Ritalin, which is the most commonly used stimulant to treat ADHD. It boosts the activity of the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which helps increase concentration and decreases the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken in the form of tablets with immediate release which are taken 2 or 3 times per day, or modified-release capsules which release the medication over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is another medicine that stimulates certain parts of the brain to increase concentration, helps focus the mind and reduce impulse-driven behavior. If methylphenidate isn't working it is usually prescribed to teens, adults and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine is usually prescribed in tablets with immediate release that are taken 2 or 3 a day. Atomoxetine works differently to the other medications mentioned above and is offered to teenagers, adults and children (aged 5and over) who are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine because of 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 control of impulses. It is taken daily as a tablet, or as an oral solution.
A vast number of randomized controlled studies and observational studies have studied the benefits and risks of drug treatment for adult adhd. These studies compared the different medicines to placebos or other medications, but not all included head-to-head trials. This study blends the results of these trials using a method known as a network meta-analysis. This is the biggest study of ADHD to date and strengthens NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adult ADHD.
The research suggests that a significant proportion read more of people with ADHD can benefit from medication. But it is important to consider the benefits and risks of taking the medication. Discuss this with your doctor and, if needed, take steps to manage symptoms with other treatments such as therapy or lifestyle modifications. It is also essential to recognize any medical condition that may cause or worsen symptoms of ADHD, such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy, thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. A thorough history and examination is essential in determining possible causes for the symptoms. Patients with a history of severe alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme caution. They may require referral to a specialist service. Patients who have a history of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems should be evaluated more thoroughly and recommended for special evaluations and tests as necessary. This could include a thorough family history, since genetic factors have been known to play a part in ADHD.