Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if the changes in your environment are not enough for you to succeed in school or at work. These medications may be short-acting or long-acting, and include the methylphenidate (such as Ritalin), and amphetamines salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medications prescribed. They are first prescribed unless you have another medical condition that requires a different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase the activity in areas of the brain responsible for the behaviour and attention. They help improve concentration, focus the mind and decrease impulse-driven behaviour. They can be legally prescribed as ADHD medications. However, they are commonly used recreationally as illegal substances like copyright and methamphetamines to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
You might be familiar with the brand name Ritalin, which is the most frequently used stimulant for treating ADHD. It increases the activity in the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which improves concentration and reduces hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It is available in the form of immediate-release tablets that are taken two or three times per day, or modified-release capsules which release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates certain parts of the brain to improve concentration, help focus the mind and reduces the risk of impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate isn't working it is typically prescribed to teens, adults and children over five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are usually taken in two or three doses daily. Atomoxetine works differently to the other medicines which are available to adults, teens and children (aged 5+) who are not able to take the methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to side effects or other reasons. It is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain, which passes messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and control of impulses. It is taken once daily as a tablet, or an oral solution.
Many randomized controlled trials as well as observational studies have been conducted to study the benefits and harms associated with drug treatment of adult adhd. These studies have compared different drugs to placebos and other drugs, but not all included head-tohead studies. This study combines results from these trials using a technique called network click here meta-analysis. This is the most comprehensive study of ADHD to date, and it strengthens NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The research suggests that a substantial proportion of people with ADHD will benefit from taking medication. It is essential to carefully consider the benefits and risks prior to taking any medication. Discuss the matter with your physician and, if necessary, implement measures to treat symptoms by using other treatments like therapy or lifestyle modifications. It is important to identify medical conditions such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy which can trigger or worsen ADHD symptoms. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are essential to determine possible causes of the symptoms. Patients who have a history of excessive alcohol or drug use should be treated with extreme care. They may need referral to a specialist service. Patients who have had a history of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems need to be assessed more thoroughly and recommended for specific tests and evaluations as required. This can include a detailed family history, as genetic factors have been identified to be a factor in ADHD.