Adult ADHD Medication
If the changes to your environment aren't enough to allow you to succeed in school or at work you could benefit from medications. These medications may be either long-acting or short-acting and include the methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) as well as amphetamine salts.
In the UK the UK, stimulants are the most frequently prescribed ADHD medications. They are the first choice in the event of a condition that requires different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants work by increasing the activity of brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. They improve concentration, help to focus the mind and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. They are also referred to as psychostimulants or amphetamines and are legal to take with a prescription as ADHD medicines. They are also used as illegal drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine in order to increase energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
The most widely used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you might have heard of by the brand name Ritalin. It increases the activity in the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which improves concentration and reduces excessive and impulsive behavior. It is available as immediate-release tablets taken every 2 or 3 times per day or modified-release capsules which release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain areas of the brain, which increases concentration and aids in focusing the mind. It also helps to reduce the tendency to be impulsive. If adhd adults medication isn't working, it is usually prescribed to adults, teens and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically consumed in three or more doses per day. Atomoxetine is a distinct medication from the others and is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children (age 5+) who are unable to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to the risk of side effects. It is a selective Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount of noradrenaline which transmits brain signals and improves concentration and impulse control. It is consumed as a tablet or oral solution every day.
A number of random controlled trials and observational studies studied the benefits and risks of drug treatment for adult adhd. These studies have compared various medications with placebos or each other, but not all have included head-tohead trials. adhd for adults medication combines the findings of these studies by using a technique known as network meta-analysis. It is the largest such study of its kind for ADHD and provides evidence for NICE's guidelines on prescribing medication to treat adult ADHD.
The results show that a significant percentage of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from a medication. It is important to carefully consider the risks and benefits before taking any medication. People should talk to a physician about this and, where appropriate, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition using other treatments, such as therapy and lifestyle modifications. It is important to identify medical conditions like narcolepsy or sleep apnea which can trigger or worsen ADHD symptoms. In order to determine the possible causes of symptoms, a thorough medical history and examination is necessary. Patients who have a history of serious drug or alcohol abuse should be treated with care. They may require referral to a specialist. Patients who have a history of serious mental disorders or developmental disorders should be evaluated more closely and referred to specialists for any necessary tests and assessments. This could include a thorough family history as genetic factors have been identified to be a factor in ADHD.