Adult ADHD Medication
If environmental modifications are not enough to allow you to succeed in school or at work, you may benefit from medications. These drugs can be short-acting or long-acting, and include the methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) as well as amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medication prescribed. They are the first choice unless you have another condition that requires different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that increase the activity in areas of the brain that control attention and behaviour. They improve concentration, help focus the mind and reduce impulsive behaviour. They are also known as psychostimulants or amphetamines and can be taken legally with a prescription as ADHD medications. However, they are frequently taken recreationally as illicit drugs like copyright and methamphetamines to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
The most commonly used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate. You may have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It increases activity in the brain areas that control attention and behaviour which improves concentration and decreases hyperactive and impulsive behavior. It is available as immediate-release tablets, taken 2-3 times a day or modified-release capsules that release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates specific areas of the brain, which improves concentration and helps focus the mind. It also reduces impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate isn't working it is typically prescribed to teenagers, adults and children over five years old. Lisdexamfetamine is typically given as tablets that release immediately, that are taken twice or three times a day. Atomoxetine is a distinct medication from the others and is prescribed to adults, teenagers and children (age 5plus) who are not able to take methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine due to the risk of side effects. It is a selective noradrenaline inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain, which passes messages between brain cells to improve concentration and control of impulses. It is consumed as a tablet or an oral solution every day.
A vast number of randomized controlled trials and observational studies looked at the advantages and disadvantages of drug treatment for adult adhd. These studies have compared various medications with placebos or other drugs, but click here not all have included head-to-head studies. This study combines the results of these studies using a method known as a network meta-analysis. It is the largest study of its kind for ADHD and provides more evidence for NICE's guidelines on prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a high proportion of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from a medication. However, it is essential to carefully weigh up the benefits and risks of taking the medication. Patients should discuss this with a doctor and, if needed you can take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition with other treatments, like therapies and lifestyle modifications. It is essential to identify medical conditions such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy that can cause or worsen ADHD symptoms. A thorough examination and history are essential to determine possible causes for the symptoms. Patients who have a history severe alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme care. Referral to a specialist may be required. Patients with histories of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems should be evaluated more thoroughly and referred to specific tests and evaluations as necessary. This could include a thorough family history, since genetic factors have been known to be a factor in ADHD.