Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if changes in the environment aren't enough for you to achieve success 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 frequently prescribed ADHD medication. They are offered first unless you have another health issue that requires a different treatment.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that help by boosting activity in parts of the brain responsible for attention and behaviour. They can help improve concentration, help focus the mind and decrease impulse-driven behaviour. They are also referred to as psychostimulants or amphetamines and can be legally taken with the prescription of ADHD medications. However, they are often used recreationally as illegal substances like methamphetamines and cocaine to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
The most widely used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you may have heard of by the brand name Ritalin. It increases activity in the brain areas that control attention and behaviour, which helps improve concentration and reduces impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It is available in the form of tablets that release immediately which are taken 2 or 3 times a day or modified-release capsules that release the medication over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates specific areas of the brain, which increases concentration and helps to focus the mind. It also reduces the impulsive behavior. It is usually prescribed to adults, teenagers and children above 5 years old in the event that methylphenidate doesn't help. Lisdexamfetamine is usually given as immediate-release tablets taken 2 or 3 a day. Atomoxetine is a distinct medication from the others and is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children (age 5plus) that cannot take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to side effects. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline that is present in the brain, which passes messages between brain cells to improve concentration and control of impulses. It is taken once daily as a tablet or an oral solution.
Numerous randomized controlled trials as well as observational studies have been conducted to determine the benefits and dangers associated with drug treatment of adult adhd. adult add medication have compared various medications with placebos or one another however, not all of them have included head-to-head studies. This study combines results from these trials employing a method known as network meta-analysis. It is the largest such study of its kind for ADHD and provides more evidence behind NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a high proportion of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from a medication. However, it is essential to weigh the risks and benefits of taking it. People should discuss this with a doctor and, if necessary, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition with other treatments, such as treatment and lifestyle changes. It is also important to identify any medical conditions that may cause or worsen symptoms similar to ADHD, like narcolepsy, sleep apnea, depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. In order to determine the possible causes of symptoms, a thorough medical history and examination is essential. Patients with a history of serious drug or alcohol abuse should be treated with care. A referral to a specialist could be required. Patients who have a history of serious mental disorders or developmental disorders should be assessed more carefully and referred specialists for any necessary tests and evaluations. This could include a more thorough history of the family members of the patient, because genetic factors are believed to be a factor in ADHD.