Adult ADHD Medication
If changes to the environment aren't enough to aid you in your success in school or at work You may be able to benefit from medication. They can be short or long acting, and include the methylphenidate family (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medications 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 of brain areas which control behavior and attention. They help improve concentration, to focus the mind and decrease the tendency to be impulsive. They are also known as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be taken legally with prescription as ADHD medicines. They are also abused as illegal drugs such as methamphetamines and cocaine to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
medication for adults with add might be familiar with the brand name Ritalin that is the most frequently used stimulant for treating ADHD. It increases the activity in the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which to improve concentration and reduce excessive and impulsive behavior. medication for adult add is available in the form of tablets with immediate release that are taken two or three time a day, or modified-release capsules which release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates certain areas of the brain. It improves concentration, help focus the mind and reduces impulsive behaviour. If methylphenidate doesn't work it is usually prescribed to teens, adults and children over five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically taken in two or three doses per day. Atomoxetine is different from the other medicines above and is offered to adults, teens and children (aged 5and over) who are unable to use the methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to negative side effects or for other reasons. It is a selective Noradrenaline-Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount of noradrenaline which transmits brain signals and improves the concentration and control of impulses. It is taken daily as a tablet or as an oral solution.
Many randomized controlled studies as well as observational studies have been conducted to examine the advantages and risks associated with drug treatment of adult adhd. These studies have compared different medications with placebos or one another however, not all of them have included head-to-head studies. This study blends the results from these trials using a method called network meta-analysis. This is the most comprehensive study of ADHD to date and strengthens NICE's guidelines regarding prescribing medication for adults suffering from ADHD.
The findings indicate that a significant proportion of people with ADHD will benefit from medication. But it is important to consider the benefits and risks of taking the medication. People should talk to a physician about this and, if necessary, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition with other treatments, like therapies and lifestyle modifications. It is also essential to determine any medical conditions which could trigger or exacerbate symptoms of ADHD, such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy, thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. In order to identify the potential causes of symptoms, a thorough medical history and physical examination is required. Patients who have a history of severe alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme care. They may require referral to a specialist service. Patients with histories of developmental disorders or other serious mental health issues must be assessed more thoroughly and referred for specific tests and evaluations as necessary. This may include a complete family history, as genetic factors have been identified to be a factor in ADHD.