Adult ADHD Medication
If changes to the environment aren't enough to allow you to succeed in school or at work, you may benefit from medications. These drugs can be long-acting or short-acting and include the methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) and amphetamines salts.
In the UK in the United Kingdom, stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD meds. They are first prescribed in the event of a health issue that requires a different treatment.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that help by boosting activity in parts of the brain responsible for the behavior and attention. They help improve concentration, focus the mind and decrease the tendency to engage in impulse behavior. They can be legally prescribed as ADHD medications. However, they are often used recreationally as illegal substances like cocaine and methamphetamines to boost energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
You may be familiar with the brand name Ritalin, which is the most commonly prescribed stimulant used to treat ADHD. It boosts activity in the brain areas that regulate behaviour and attention which improves concentration and reduces impulsive and hyperactive behaviour. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets that are taken 2 or 3 times a day or modified-release capsules which release the medicine 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 the risk of impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate isn't working it is typically prescribed to teenagers, adults and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine is usually given as immediate-release tablets which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine is a distinct medication than the other ones and is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children (age 5+) who are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to side effects. add in adults medication is a selective Noradrenaline Reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount of noradrenaline which transmits messages between brain cells and increases concentration and impulse control. It is taken as a tablet or oral solution once a day.
A vast number of randomized controlled studies and observational studies have examined the benefits and harms of drug treatment for adult adhd. These studies have compared different medications with placebos or other drugs but not all included head-tohead trials. This study combines results from those trials by using a method called network meta-analysis. It is the largest such study of its kind for ADHD and provides more evidence for NICE's guidelines on prescribing medication to treat adult ADHD.
The results show that a large percentage of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from taking medication. It is crucial to take into account the potential risks and benefits prior to taking any medication. Discuss the matter with your physician and, if needed implement measures to treat symptoms by using other treatments such as treatment or lifestyle changes. It is also essential to determine any medical conditions that could cause or exacerbate symptoms of ADHD, such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy, thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. To determine the causes that could be causing symptoms, a thorough medical history and examination is essential. Patients who have a history of severe alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme care. Referral to a specialist may be necessary. Patients who have an history of serious mental disorders or developmental disorders should be assessed more closely and referred to specialists for any needed tests and evaluations. This may include a more detailed account of the family members of the patient, since genetic factors are known to be a factor in ADHD.