Adult ADHD Medication
If environmental modifications are not enough to allow you to succeed at work or school you could benefit from medication. These medications may be either long-acting or short-acting and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) and amphetamines salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most common ADHD medications prescribed. They are the first choice unless you have another health issue that requires a different treatment.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the activity in the parts of the brain responsible for the behaviour and attention. They help improve concentration, focus the mind and reduce impulsive behaviour. They are also referred to as amphetamines or psychostimulants. They can be legally taken with a prescription as ADHD medicines. However, they are often abused recreationally as illegal drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
You might be familiar with the brand name Ritalin that is the most frequently used stimulant for treating ADHD. It increases activity in the brain areas that control attention and behaviour, which helps improve concentration and reduces impulsive and hyperactive behaviour. It is available in the form of tablets with immediate release, taken 2 or 3 times per day or modified-release capsules that release the medicine over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates certain parts of the brain. It improves concentration, helps focus the mind and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. It is usually prescribed to teenagers, adults and children over five years of age if methylphenidate does not help. Lisdexamfetamine is usually given as immediate-release tablets that are taken twice or three times a day. Atomoxetine works differently to the other medicines above and is offered to teenagers, adults and children (aged 5plus) who are unable to use the methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to negative side effects or for other reasons. It is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline that is present in the brain, which passes messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and impulse control. It is taken daily in the form of a tablet, or as an oral solution.
A number of random controlled trials and observational studies examined the benefits and harms of drug treatment for adult adhd. These studies compared medicines to placebos or other drugs, but not all included head-to-head trials. This study combines the findings of those trials using a method called network meta-analysis. This is the biggest study of ADHD to date and strengthens NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The research suggests that a substantial proportion of people suffering from ADHD will benefit from taking medication. However, it is essential to carefully weigh up the benefits and risks of taking it. best adhd medication should discuss this with a doctor and, if necessary decide to treat the symptoms of the condition using other treatments, such as therapy and lifestyle adjustments. It is also important to identify any medical conditions that could cause or exacerbate ADHD-like symptoms, such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy, thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. A thorough history and examination are essential to determine possible causes of the symptoms. Patients with a history of extreme alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme caution. Referral to a specialist may be required. Patients who have an history of serious mental disorders or developmental disorders should be evaluated more carefully and referred to specialists for any tests and assessments. This may include a complete family history, as genetic factors have been proven to be a factor in ADHD.