Adult ADHD Medication
If environmental modifications are not enough to allow you to succeed at school or work You may be able to be able to benefit from medication. These medications can 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 commonly prescribed ADHD medication. If you do not have any other condition that requires the use of a different medication, stimulants are typically prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the activity in parts of the brain that control attention and behaviour. They improve concentration, help to focus the mind and decrease the tendency to be impulsive. They can be prescribed legally as ADHD medication. However, they are frequently taken recreationally as illicit drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine to boost energy levels and feelings of well-being.
The most widely used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you might have heard of by the brand name Ritalin. It increases the activity in the brain regions that regulate attention and behavior, which improves concentration and reduces hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It can be taken in the form of immediate-release tablets taken 2-3 times a day or modified-release capsules which release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is another medicine that stimulates certain areas of the brain to increase concentration, aids in focusing the mind and reduce impulse-driven behavior. If methylphenidate doesn't work it is usually prescribed to teens, adults and children over five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically taken in three or two doses a day. Atomoxetine differs from the other medications mentioned above and is offered to teenagers, adults and children (aged 5plus) who cannot use methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine because of negative side effects or for other reasons. 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 enhance concentration and control of impulses. It is taken as a tablet or an oral solution once a day.
A large number of randomized controlled studies and observational studies have examined the benefits and harms of the treatment for adults adhd. These studies have compared different medications with placebos or other drugs however, not all of them have included head-to-head studies. medication for adult add blends the results from those trials by using a method called network meta-analysis. It is the largest analysis of ADHD and provides evidence behind NICE's guidelines for prescribing medication to treat adult ADHD.
The results show that a significant proportion of people with ADHD will benefit from medication. It is essential to carefully consider the benefits and risks prior to taking any medication. Discuss this with your doctor and, if necessary, implement measures to treat symptoms with other treatments, such as treatment or lifestyle modifications. It is also important to determine any medical conditions that may cause or worsen ADHD-like symptoms, such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. A thorough history and examination is essential in determining possible causes for the symptoms. Patients who have a history of extreme alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme caution. Referral to a specialist may be necessary. Patients who have an history of serious developmental or mental disorders should be assessed more carefully and referred to specialists for any necessary tests and assessments. This could include a more thorough history of the person's family, since genetic factors are known to play a part in ADHD.