Adult ADHD Medication
You may require medication if changes in the environment are not enough for you to succeed in school or at work. They are either short or long-acting and include the methylphenidate family (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medication prescribed. They are first prescribed until you have a different medical condition that requires a different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that work by increasing activity in areas of the brain responsible for attention and behaviour. They improve concentration, help to concentrate the mind and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. They are also referred to as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be taken legally with a prescription as ADHD medicines. They can also be used as illegal substances such as methamphetamines and cocaine to boost energy and feelings of well-being.
The most commonly used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate. You may have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It boosts activity in the brain regions that regulate behaviour and attention, which helps improve concentration and reduces impulsive and hyperactive behaviour. It is available as immediate-release tablets that are taken 2 or 3 times a day, or as modified-release capsules that release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates specific areas of the brain to increase concentration, aids in focusing the mind and decrease impulsive behaviour. It is usually prescribed to teenagers, adults, and children above five years of age if methylphenidate does not help. Lisdexamfetamine is typically given in tablets with immediate release that are which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine is a different medication than the other ones and is recommended to teenagers, adults and children (age 5+) who are unable to take methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine due to the risk of side effects. It is a selective Noradrenaline-Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount of noradrenaline which transmits brain signals and increases concentration and impulse control. It is consumed as a tablet or an oral solution once a day.
Many randomized controlled studies 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 included head-tohead trials. This study blends the results from those studies using a technique called network meta-analysis. medications for adhd in adults is the largest study of ADHD to date and reinforces NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults with ADHD.
The results show that a high percentage of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from taking medication. It is essential to carefully examine the risks and benefits before taking any medication. It is recommended to discuss this with a doctor and, if needed, take steps to manage the symptoms of the disorder with other treatments, like therapies and lifestyle modifications. It is also crucial to identify any medical conditions that could cause or exacerbate symptoms similar to ADHD, like narcolepsy, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are essential to determine possible causes of the symptoms. Patients with a history of severe alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme care. medication for adult adhd may need referral to a specialist service. Patients who have had a history of developmental disorders or other serious mental health issues should be evaluated more thoroughly and referred to special tests and evaluations if required. This can include a more detailed account of the family history of the patient as genetic factors are known to play a part in ADHD.