Adult ADHD Medication
If the changes to your environment aren't enough to allow you to succeed at school or work you could benefit from medications. These drugs can be either long-acting or short-acting and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) and amphetamines salts.
In the UK in the United Kingdom, stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications. They are offered first unless you have another medical condition that requires a different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants improve the activity of brain areas that control attention and behavior. They help improve concentration, focus the mind and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. They are also known as amphetamines or psychostimulants. They can be taken legally with prescription as ADHD medications. However, they are commonly used recreationally as illegal substances like cocaine and methamphetamines to boost energy levels and feelings of well-being.
adhd in adults medication for ADHD is methylphenidate. You may have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It boosts activity in the brain areas that control attention and behaviour which aids in improving concentration and decreases hyperactive and impulsive 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 medication over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates specific areas of the brain to improve concentration, aids in focusing the mind and decrease impulsive behaviour. If methylphenidate fails to work, it is usually prescribed to teens, adults and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically consumed in three or more doses daily. Atomoxetine is a different medicine from the others and is prescribed to adults, teenagers 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). It increases the amount noradrenaline, which sends messages between brain cells and improves the concentration and control of impulses. It is taken in the form of a tablet or oral solution once a day.
Numerous randomized controlled trials as well as observational studies have been conducted to study the advantages and risks that are associated with treatment for adult adhd. These studies have compared different medications with placebos or one another, but not all have included head-tohead trials. This study combines the results of those trials using a method known as a network meta-analysis. This is the largest analysis of ADHD to date, and it strengthens NICE's guidelines on prescribing medication for adults suffering from ADHD.
The research suggests that a substantial proportion of people with ADHD can benefit from medication. It is crucial to take into account the potential risks and benefits prior to taking any medication. Patients should discuss this with a doctor and, if needed, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition with other treatments, such as therapies and lifestyle changes. It is also important to recognize any medical condition that could cause or exacerbate symptoms similar to ADHD, like narcolepsy, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. In order to identify the potential causes of symptoms, a thorough medical history and examination is essential. Patients with a history of severe drinking or substance abuse must be treated very carefully. They may need referral to a specialist service. Patients with histories of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems should be evaluated more thoroughly and referred for special tests and evaluations if required. This can include a detailed family history, since genetic factors have been identified to be involved in ADHD.