Adult ADHD Medication
If environmental modifications are not enough to aid you in your success in school or at work you could benefit from medication. 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 do not have a condition that requires the use of a different medication, stimulants are typically prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that help by boosting activity in parts of the brain responsible for the behavior and attention. They increase concentration, to focus the mind and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. They are also referred to as amphetamines or psychostimulants and are legal to take with a prescription as ADHD medications. However, they are frequently abused recreationally as illegal drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
You might recognize the brand name Ritalin which is the most commonly used stimulant for treating ADHD. It enhances the activity in the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which increase concentration and decreases excessive and impulsive behavior. It can be taken in the form of immediate-release tablets, taken every 2 or 3 times per day or modified-release capsules that release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates certain parts of the brain to improve concentration, aids in focusing the mind and reduces impulse-driven behavior. If methylphenidate fails to work, it is usually prescribed to adults, teens and children older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically consumed in three or more doses a day. Atomoxetine is a different medicine from the others and is prescribed to adults, teenagers and children (age 5+) who are not able to take methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine because of the adverse 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 as a tablet or an oral solution daily.
A vast number of randomized controlled studies and observational studies have looked at the advantages and disadvantages of drug treatment for adult adhd. These studies compared treatments to placebos or other drugs, but none included head-to-head trials. This study blends the results of those trials by using a technique known as network meta-analysis. It is the largest analysis for ADHD and provides evidence behind NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a substantial proportion of people suffering from ADHD will benefit from medication. It is essential to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits prior to taking any medication. Patients should discuss this with a doctor and, if needed, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition using other treatments, such as treatment and lifestyle modifications. It is important to identify medical conditions such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy that can cause or worsen ADHD symptoms. A thorough examination and history are essential to determine possible causes of the symptoms. Patients who have a history of serious drinking or substance abuse must be treated with care. They may require referral to a specialist. adhd medication side effects with an extensive history of developmental or mental disorders should be assessed more closely and referred to specialists for any necessary tests and evaluations. This may include a complete family history as genetic factors have been proven to play a part in ADHD.