Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if changes in the environment aren't enough for you to be successful at school or work. These are short or long acting, and include the family of methylphenidates (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most common ADHD medications prescribed. They are offered first in the event of a medical condition that requires a different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants work by increasing the activity of brain regions that control attention and behavior. They aid in improving concentration, focus the mind and decrease the tendency to engage in impulse behavior. They are also known as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be taken legally with prescription as ADHD medicines. However, they are frequently used recreationally as illegal substances such as methamphetamine and cocaine to boost energy levels and feelings of well-being.
You may be familiar with the brand name Ritalin which is the most frequently used stimulant to treat ADHD. It increases activity in the areas of the brain that control attention and behaviour which aids in improving concentration and decreases hyperactive and impulsive behavior. It is available as immediate-release tablets, taken 2-3 times a day, or as modified-release capsules that release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medicine that stimulates certain parts of the brain to improve concentration, helps focus the mind and reduces impulse-driven behavior. If methylphenidate fails to work it is typically prescribed to teens, adults and children over five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are usually taken in two or three doses daily. Atomoxetine is a distinct medication from the rest and is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children (age 5+) that cannot take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to the risk of side effects. It is a selective noradrenaline inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline found in the brain, which transmits messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and impulse control. It is taken as a tablet or an oral solution daily.
Numerous randomized controlled trials as and observational studies have been conducted to determine the benefits and dangers associated with drug treatment of adult adhd. These studies have compared different medicines to placebos or other medications, but not all included head-tohead trials. This study blends the results from those studies using a technique called network meta-analysis. This is the largest study of ADHD to date and reinforces NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adult ADHD.
The results show that a large percentage of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from taking medication. However, medication for adhd in adults is essential to weigh the benefits and risks of taking it. Discuss the matter with your physician and, if needed take steps to manage symptoms by using other treatments such as treatment or lifestyle changes. It is important to identify medical conditions such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy that can cause or worsen ADHD symptoms. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are essential to determine possible causes of the symptoms. Patients who have an extensive history of drinking or substance abuse must be treated with care. They may require referral to a specialist service. Patients with a history of serious developmental or mental disorders should be assessed more carefully and referred to specialists for any needed tests and assessments. This can include a detailed family history as genetic factors have been proven to be a factor in ADHD.