Adult ADHD Medication
There is a possibility that you will require medication if the changes in your environment do not allow you to be successful in school or at work. These medications may be long-acting or short-acting and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) as well as amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medications prescribed. They are the first choice unless you have another health issue that requires a different treatment.
medication for adult add improve the activity of brain regions that control attention and behavior. They aid in improving concentration, help focus the mind and decrease impulse-driven behaviour. They are also known as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be taken legally with prescription as ADHD medications. However, they are commonly abused recreationally as illegal drugs like cocaine and methamphetamines to increase energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
You might be familiar with the brand name Ritalin that is the most widely used stimulant for treating ADHD. It increases the activity in the brain regions that regulate attention and behavior, which improves concentration and reduces the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It is available in the form of tablets that release immediately that are taken two or three time a day or modified-release capsules that release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medicine that stimulates specific areas of the brain. It improves concentration, aids in focusing the mind and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. It is typically prescribed to adults, teenagers and children above five years of age if methylphenidate does not help. Lisdexamfetamine is usually prescribed as tablets that release immediately, which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine is a different medicine from the rest and is recommended to teenagers, adults and children (age 5+) who are not able to take methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine due to side effects. It is a selective noradrenaline inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline that is present in the brain, which transmits messages between brain cells to improve concentration and control of impulses. It is taken once daily as a tablet, or as an oral solution.
A number of random controlled trials and observational studies looked at the advantages and disadvantages of drug treatment for adult adhd. These studies have compared different medications with placebos or other drugs, but not all have included head-tohead trials. This study blends the 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 in NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The research suggests that a large percentage of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication. It is essential to carefully take into account the risks and benefits before taking any medication. Discuss the matter with your physician and, if needed take steps to manage symptoms using other treatments like treatment or lifestyle adjustments. It is also essential to determine any medical conditions that could cause or exacerbate symptoms similar to ADHD, like sleep apnea, narcolepsy thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. To identify the potential causes of symptoms, a thorough medical history and physical examination is required. Patients who have a history of extreme alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme care. They may need referral to a specialist. Patients with histories of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems should be evaluated more thoroughly and referred to special tests and evaluations if necessary. This can include a detailed family history, since genetic factors have been proven to play a part in ADHD.