Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if environmental changes are not enough for you to succeed in school or at work. These medications can be either long-acting or short-acting and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) and amphetamines salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication prescribed. If you do not have another condition that needs the use of a different medication, stimulants are usually prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the activity in parts of the brain responsible for the behaviour and attention. They help improve concentration, focus the mind and decrease impulse-driven behaviour. They are able to be legally prescribed as ADHD medication. They are also used in the form of illegal drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine in order to increase energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
The most popular stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you may have heard of by the brand name Ritalin. It boosts activity in the areas of the brain that regulate behaviour and attention which improves concentration and decreases hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It is available as immediate-release tablets that are taken 2-3 times a day or modified-release capsules that release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates specific areas of the brain, which enhances concentration and helps to focus the mind. It also reduces the tendency to be impulsive. If methylphenidate doesn't work it is usually prescribed to teenagers, adults and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine is usually prescribed as immediate-release tablets taken 2 or 3 a day. Atomoxetine is a different medication than the other ones and is recommended to teenagers, adults and children (age 5plus) who are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to the risk of side effects. It is a selective Noradrenaline Reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount noradrenaline, which transmits messages between brain cells and improves concentration and impulse control. It is taken every day as a tablet, or an oral solution.
Many randomized controlled trials as also observational studies have been conducted to study the benefits and dangers related to the treatment of adult adhd. These studies compared different medicines with placebos or each other however, not all of them have included head-to-head trials. This study combines results from those studies using a technique called network meta-analysis. add medication adults is the biggest analysis of ADHD to date and reinforces NICE's guidelines regarding prescribing medication for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a high percentage of people with ADHD are able to benefit from taking medication. It is essential to carefully consider the benefits and risks prior to taking any medication. It is recommended to 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 modifications. It is also crucial to recognize any medical condition that may cause or worsen symptoms of ADHD, such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are essential to determine possible causes for the symptoms. Patients with an extensive history of alcohol or drug abuse should be treated very carefully. A referral to a specialist could be necessary. Patients who have a history of serious developmental or mental disorders should be evaluated more carefully and referred to specialists for any needed tests and evaluations. This can include a more thorough history of the family history of the patient since genetic factors are known to play a role in ADHD.