Adult ADHD Medication
If the changes to your environment aren't enough to help you succeed at school or work you could be able to benefit from medication. They can be short or long acting, and include the methylphenidate family (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK in the United Kingdom, stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed ADHD medication. They are first prescribed in the event of a health issue that requires a different treatment.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that work by increasing 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 referred to as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be legally taken with a prescription as ADHD medicines. They are also abused in the form of illegal drugs like copyright and methamphetamines in order to boost energy and feelings of well-being.
The most commonly used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you may have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It boosts activity in the brain areas that regulate behaviour and attention which aids in improving concentration and reduces hyperactive and impulsive behavior. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets, taken 2-3 times a day, or as modified-release capsules that release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates certain areas of the brain to increase concentration, helps focus the mind and reduce impulse-driven behavior. If methylphenidate doesn't work it is usually prescribed to adults, teens and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically taken in three or two doses a day. Atomoxetine is a distinct medication from the others and is recommended to teenagers, adults and children (age 5and over) who are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine because of the adverse effects. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline found in the brain, which passes messages between brain cells to improve concentration and impulse control. It is taken as a tablet or an oral solution daily.
A number of random controlled studies and observational studies have looked at the advantages and disadvantages of treatment for adults with adhd. These studies compared here different medicines with placebos or other drugs however, not all of them have included head-to-head trials. This study combines the results of those studies using a method called network meta-analysis. It is the largest analysis of ADHD and provides evidence behind NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a significant proportion of people suffering from ADHD will benefit from medication. However, it is crucial to carefully weigh up the risks and benefits of taking the medication. It is recommended to discuss this with a doctor and, where appropriate decide to treat the symptoms of the condition using other treatments, like treatment and lifestyle modifications. It is crucial to recognize medical conditions such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy that can cause or worsen ADHD symptoms. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are crucial in assessing for possible causes for the symptoms. Patients who have a history severe alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme caution. They may need referral to a specialist service. Patients who have an history of serious mental disorders or developmental disorders should be assessed more closely and referred to specialists for any needed tests and assessments. This can include a detailed family history as genetic factors have been known to be involved in ADHD.