Adult ADHD Medication
If the changes to your environment aren't enough to aid you in your success in school or at work, you may benefit from medications. These medications may be either long-acting or short-acting and include the methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) and amphetamines salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most common ADHD medications prescribed. If you do not have a condition that requires the use of a different medication, stimulants are often prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants improve the activity of brain areas which control behavior and attention. They aid in improving concentration, focus the mind and decrease the tendency to engage in impulse behavior. They are able to be legally prescribed as ADHD medications. However, they are commonly used recreationally as illegal substances such as methamphetamine and copyright to boost energy levels and feelings of well-being.
You may be familiar with the brand name Ritalin that is the most frequently used stimulant to treat ADHD. It stimulates the areas of the brain that regulate attention and behavior, which helps improve concentration and decreases hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It is available in the form of immediate-release tablets, taken 2 or 3 times a day or modified-release capsules that release the medication over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates specific areas of the brain. It improves concentration, helps focus the mind and reduces impulse-driven behavior. If methylphenidate fails to work, it is usually prescribed to adults, teens and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically taken in two or three doses per day. Atomoxetine is a distinct medication from the others and is recommended to teenagers, adults and children (age 5plus) who are unable to take methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine because of the adverse effects. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain, which passes messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and impulse control. It is taken as a tablet or oral solution once a day.
A number of random controlled trials and observational studies have studied the benefits and risks of treatment for adults with adhd. These studies compared different medicines with placebos or each other however, not all of them have included head-tohead trials. This study combines the results of these studies using a method known as a network meta-analysis. It is the most comprehensive analysis of ADHD and strengthens the evidence in NICE's guidelines for prescribing medication to treat adult ADHD.
The results show that a high percentage of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication. However, it is essential to weigh the risks and benefits of taking the medication. People should discuss this with a doctor and, where appropriate, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition iampsychiatry.com with other treatments, such as therapy and lifestyle adjustments. It is also crucial to identify any medical conditions that may cause or worsen ADHD-like symptoms, such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. A thorough history and examination are essential to determine possible causes of the symptoms. Patients with an extensive history of drug or alcohol abuse should be treated with care. 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 specialists for any needed tests and assessments. This could include a thorough family history, as genetic factors have been identified to be a factor in ADHD.