Adult ADHD Medication
If the changes to your environment aren't enough to allow you to succeed at school or work You may be able to be able to benefit from medication. These drugs can 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 medication prescribed. They are offered first until you have a different condition that requires different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that work by increasing activity in the parts of the brain responsible for the behaviour and attention. They improve concentration, help to focus the mind and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. They are also known as psychostimulants or amphetamines and can be taken legally with prescription as ADHD medicines. However, they are often abused recreationally as illegal drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine to increase energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
You might recognize the brand name Ritalin, which is the most widely prescribed stimulant used to treat ADHD. adhd depression medication increases the activity in the brain regions that regulate attention and behavior, which helps increase concentration and decreases the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken in the form of immediate-release tablets that are taken 2-3 times a day or modified-release capsules which release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain regions of the brain, which increases concentration and helps focus the mind. It also helps to reduce the impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate doesn't work, it is usually prescribed to adults, teens and children 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 prescribed to adults, teenagers and children (age 5+) that cannot take methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine due to side effects. It is a selective Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount noradrenaline, which sends messages between brain cells and improves concentration and impulse control. It is taken daily in the form of a tablet, or as an oral solution.
Numerous randomized controlled trials as and observational studies have been conducted to study the benefits and harms that are associated with treatment for adult adhd. These studies have compared different medications with placebos or other drugs, but not all have included head-tohead trials. adhd without medication combines the findings of these studies using a method known as a network meta-analysis. This is the biggest analysis of ADHD to date and reinforces NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a high proportion of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication. It is crucial to consider the risks and benefits before taking any medication. Discuss this with your doctor and, if needed take steps to manage symptoms with other treatments like therapy or lifestyle changes. It is also essential to identify any medical conditions which could trigger or exacerbate ADHD-like symptoms, such as sleep apnea and 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 who have a history extreme alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme caution. They may need referral to a specialist. Patients who have an history of serious mental disorders or developmental disorders should be assessed more closely and referred to specialists for any tests and evaluations. This could include a more detailed history of the family history of the patient because genetic factors are believed to play a role in ADHD.