Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if the changes in your environment aren't enough for you to be successful at work or school. 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 commonly used ADHD medication prescribed. If you don't have a condition that requires a different medication, stimulants are usually prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants improve the activity of brain regions that regulate behavior and attention. They can help improve concentration, focus the mind and reduce impulse behaviour. They are also referred to as psychostimulants or amphetamines and can be legally taken with prescription as ADHD medication. However, they are commonly used recreationally as illegal substances like cocaine and methamphetamines to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
The most widely 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 improves concentration and reduces the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken in the form of tablets with immediate release, taken 2 or 3 time a day, or modified-release capsules which release the medicine over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medicine that stimulates certain areas of the brain to increase concentration, aids in focusing the mind and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate isn't working it is usually prescribed to teenagers, adults and children over five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are usually taken in two or three doses daily. Atomoxetine is a different medication than the other ones and is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children (age 5plus) who are unable to take methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine because of the adverse effects. It is a selective Noradrenaline Reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount noradrenaline, which transmits brain signals and increases concentration and impulse control. It is taken every day in the form of a tablet, or an oral solution.
A number of random controlled trials and observational studies have examined the benefits and harms of treatment for adults with adhd. These studies compared different medicines with placebos or each other however, not all of them have included head-to-head trials. This study blends the results from those trials by using a method called network meta-analysis. It is the largest such analysis for ADHD and provides more evidence behind NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications to treat adult ADHD.
The results show that a significant proportion of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication. But it is important to weigh the risks and benefits of taking the medication. Patients should talk to a physician about this and, if necessary decide to treat the symptoms of the disorder with other methods, including therapy and lifestyle adjustments. It is also essential to recognize any medical condition that may cause or worsen symptoms of ADHD, such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. To determine the causes that could be causing symptoms, a thorough medical history and examination is necessary. Patients who have a history of excessive alcohol or drug use should be treated with extreme caution. hop over to this web-site to a specialist may be necessary. Patients with histories of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems need to be assessed more thoroughly and referred for special tests and evaluations if required. This can include a more detailed history of the family history of the patient because genetic factors are believed to play a role in ADHD.