Adult ADHD Medication
If environmental modifications are not enough to help you succeed at school or work, you may be able to benefit from medication. These medications may be short-acting or long-acting, and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) and amphetamines salts.
In the UK in the United Kingdom, stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD medications. If you don't have any other condition that requires a different medication, stimulants are typically prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that help by boosting activity in the parts of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. They increase concentration, to concentrate the mind and reduce impulsive behaviour. They are able to be prescribed legally as ADHD medication. However, they are commonly taken recreationally as illicit drugs like methamphetamines and copyright to increase energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
The most commonly used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate. You may have heard of by the brand name Ritalin. It boosts the activity of the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which helps to improve concentration and reduce the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken in the form of immediate-release tablets, taken 2 or 3 times per day, or modified-release capsules which release the medication over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain regions of the brain, which enhances concentration and aids in focusing the mind. It also reduces the impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate isn't working, it is usually prescribed to teenagers, adults and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically taken in two or three doses daily. Atomoxetine is different from the other medicines above and is offered to adults, teens and children (aged 5plus) who are unable to use lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate due to side effects or other reasons. It is a selective noradrenaline inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain, which passes messages between brain cells to improve concentration and control of impulses. It is taken as a tablet or oral solution daily.
Many randomized controlled trials as also observational studies have been conducted to examine the advantages and risks related to the treatment of adult adhd. These studies have compared various medications with placebos or each other, but not all have included head-to-head studies. This study combines results from these trials using a method called network meta-analysis. This is the largest study of ADHD click here to date, and it strengthens NICE's guidelines regarding prescribing medication for adults suffering from ADHD.
The findings indicate that a significant proportion of people suffering from ADHD will benefit from taking medication. It is essential to carefully consider the benefits and risks prior to taking any medication. Patients should talk to a physician about this and, where appropriate, take steps to manage the symptoms of the disorder with other treatments, such as treatment and lifestyle adjustments. It is also crucial to determine any medical conditions which could trigger or exacerbate ADHD-like symptoms, such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. A thorough history and 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 a history of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems should be evaluated more thoroughly and recommended for special tests and evaluations if required. This could include a more thorough history of the family members of the patient, since genetic factors are known to play a role in ADHD.