Adult ADHD Medication
There is a possibility that you will require medication if environmental changes do not allow you to achieve success in school or at work. These medications can be either long-acting or short-acting and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) as well as amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication prescribed. If you do not have any other condition that requires the use of a different medication, stimulants are typically prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants improve the activity of brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. They help improve concentration, focus the mind and reduce impulsive behaviour. They can be prescribed legally as ADHD medication. However, they are often abused recreationally as illegal drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine to boost energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
The most commonly used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you may have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It increases activity in the brain regions that regulate behaviour and attention which improves concentration and reduces hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It is available in the form of immediate-release tablets that are taken two or three times per day or modified-release capsules that release the medication throughout the day.
adhd uk medication is another medicine that stimulates specific areas of the brain to improve concentration, helps focus the mind and reduces impulse-driven behavior. It is usually prescribed to adults, teenagers and children over five years of age in the event that methylphenidate doesn't help. Lisdexamfetamine is usually prescribed as tablets that release immediately, which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine works differently to the other medicines which are available to teenagers, adults and children (aged 5plus) who cannot use the methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to adverse effects or other causes. It is a selective Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount of noradrenaline which transmits brain signals and improves the concentration and control of impulses. It is taken daily as a tablet or an oral solution.
Many randomized controlled trials as also observational studies have been conducted to study the benefits and dangers related to the treatment of adult adhd. These studies compared different medicines with placebos or one another, but not all have included head-to-head studies. This study combines the results of those trials using a method called network meta-analysis. This is the biggest study of ADHD to date and strengthens NICE's guidelines regarding prescribing medication for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a large proportion of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication. It is crucial to consider the benefits and risks prior to taking any medication. Discuss the matter with your physician and, if needed, take steps to manage symptoms with other treatments such as therapy or lifestyle modifications. It is also important to determine any medical conditions that may cause or worsen symptoms of ADHD, such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. A thorough examination and history are crucial in assessing for possible causes for the symptoms. Patients who have a history of excessive alcohol or drug use should be treated with extreme care. They may require referral to a specialist service. Patients who have a history of developmental disorders or other serious mental health issues need to be assessed more thoroughly and referred to specific tests and evaluations as required. This can include a more detailed history of the family members of the patient, since genetic factors are known to play a role in ADHD.