Adult ADHD Medication
If environmental modifications are not enough to help you succeed at work or school, you may benefit from medication. They can be short or long-acting, and include the methylphenidate family (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medications prescribed. If you do not have any other condition that requires a different medication, stimulants are usually prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants help by boosting activity in areas of the brain responsible for the behaviour and attention. They help improve concentration, to concentrate the mind and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. They are also known as psychostimulants or amphetamines and can be legally taken with a prescription as ADHD medication. However, they are commonly used recreationally as illegal substances such as methamphetamine and cocaine to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
You might be familiar with the brand name Ritalin that is the most frequently used stimulant to treat ADHD. adhd medication for adults uk increases the activity in the brain regions that regulate attention and behavior, which to improve concentration and reduce the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken in the form of immediate-release tablets that are taken two or three times per day or modified-release capsules that release the medicine over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medicine that stimulates certain parts of the brain to increase concentration, aids in focusing the mind and reduces impulsive behaviour. If methylphenidate doesn't work it is usually prescribed to adults, teens and children older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are usually taken in two or three doses per day. Atomoxetine is a different medication from the others and is recommended to teenagers, adults and children (age 5and over) who are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to side effects. It is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline found in the brain, which transmits messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and control of impulses. It is taken as a tablet or oral solution every day.
Many randomized controlled studies as well as observational studies have been conducted to study the benefits and harms associated with drug treatment of adult adhd. These studies compared drugs to placebos and other medications, but not all included head-tohead trials. This study combines the results of these trials using a technique called network meta-analysis. It is the largest analysis of ADHD and provides evidence for NICE's guidelines on prescribing medication to treat adult ADHD.
The results show that a high percentage of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication. It is essential to carefully examine the potential risks and benefits prior to taking any medication. It is recommended to talk to a physician about this and, if needed, take steps to manage the symptoms of the disorder with other treatments, like therapies and lifestyle changes. It is also essential to identify any medical conditions which could trigger or exacerbate ADHD-like symptoms, such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are crucial in assessing for possible causes for the symptoms. Patients with a history of extreme alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme caution. They may require referral to a specialist. Patients who have had a history of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems must be assessed more thoroughly and referred for specific tests and evaluations as required. best adhd medication may include a more thorough history of the person's family, as genetic factors are known to play a part in ADHD.