Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if environmental changes aren't enough for you to succeed at school or work. These drugs can be long-acting or short-acting and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) and amphetamines salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most common ADHD medication prescribed. If you do not have a condition that requires a different medication, stimulants are often prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase the activity in the parts of the brain that control the behaviour 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 legally taken with the prescription of ADHD medicines. They are also used as illegal drugs such as methamphetamines and cocaine to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
You may be familiar with the brand name Ritalin which is the most commonly prescribed stimulant used to treat ADHD. It stimulates the areas of the brain that regulate behaviour and attention which improves concentration and reduces hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets taken every 2 or 3 times per day or modified-release capsules that release the medicine throughout the day.
adult adhd medication is a different medication that stimulates specific areas of the brain to improve concentration, helps focus the mind and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate doesn't work, it is usually prescribed to adults, teens and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are usually taken in three or two doses per day. Atomoxetine works differently to the other medications mentioned which are available to teens, adults, and children (aged 5and over) who are not able to take lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate due to negative side effects or for other reasons. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain, transferring messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and impulse control. It is taken daily as a tablet, or as an oral solution.
A large number of randomized controlled studies and observational studies have looked at the advantages and disadvantages of drug treatment for adult adhd. These studies have compared different medications with placebos or each other, but not all have included head-to-head trials. This study combines the results of those studies using a method called network meta-analysis. It is the largest analysis for ADHD and provides more evidence behind NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a significant percentage of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from a medication. However, it is essential to weigh the benefits and risks of taking it. It is recommended to talk to a physician about this and, where appropriate, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition using other methods, including therapies and lifestyle modifications. It is also essential to determine any medical conditions that may cause or worsen symptoms similar to ADHD, like narcolepsy, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. In order to determine the causes that could be causing symptoms, a thorough history and examination is necessary. Patients who have a history of serious drinking or substance abuse must be treated with care. Referral to a specialist may be necessary. Patients with an history of serious developmental or mental disorders should be evaluated more carefully and referred specialists for any needed tests and assessments. This can include a detailed family history, since genetic factors have been known to be a factor in ADHD.