Adult ADHD Medication
If the changes to your environment aren't enough to help you succeed in school or at work, you may be able to benefit from medication. They are either short or long acting, and include the methylphenidate family (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK in the United Kingdom, stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed ADHD medication. They are first prescribed in the event of a medical condition that requires a different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase the activity in parts of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. They increase concentration, focus the mind and reduce impulsive behaviour. They are also known as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be taken legally with a prescription as ADHD medication. They are also abused as illegal substances such as methamphetamine and copyright in order to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
The most popular stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate. You may have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It boosts the activity of the brain regions that regulate attention and behavior, which helps increase concentration and decreases the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It is available in the form of tablets that release immediately, taken 2 or 3 time a day or modified-release capsules that release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain regions of the brain, which enhances concentration and helps to focus the mind. It also helps to reduce impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate fails to work, it is usually prescribed to teens, adults and children over five years old. Lisdexamfetamine is typically given as immediate-release tablets taken 2 or 3 a day. Atomoxetine works differently to the other medicines that are listed above and is available to teenagers, adults and children (aged 5+) who cannot use lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate due to side effects or other reasons. It is a selective Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount of noradrenaline which sends messages between brain cells and increases concentration and impulse control. It is taken every day as a tablet or an oral solution.
A number of random controlled trials and observational studies have examined the benefits and harms of treatment for adults with adhd. These studies have compared various medications with placebos or each other however, not all of them have included head-to-head trials. This study blends the results from those trials by employing a method known as network meta-analysis. This is the biggest analysis of ADHD to date and reinforces NICE's guidelines on prescribing medication for adult ADHD.
The results show that a substantial proportion of people with ADHD can benefit from medication. It is essential to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits prior to taking any medication. People should discuss this with a doctor and, if needed you can take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition with other treatments, like therapy and lifestyle changes. It is also important to recognize any medical condition that could cause or exacerbate symptoms similar to ADHD, like sleep apnea and narcolepsy, depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are crucial in assessing for possible causes of the symptoms. Patients who have a history of serious drug or alcohol abuse should be treated very carefully. Referral to a specialist may be required. Patients with an extensive history of mental disorders or website developmental disorders should be assessed more carefully and referred specialists for any necessary tests and assessments. This could include a more detailed history of the family members of the patient, because genetic factors are believed to play a role in ADHD.