Adult ADHD Medication
If environmental modifications are not enough to aid you in your success at school or work you could be able to benefit from medication. These medications can be long-acting or short-acting and include the methylphenidate (such as Ritalin), and amphetamines salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medications prescribed. If you do not have any other condition that requires a different medication, stimulants are often prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants improve the activity of brain regions which control behavior and attention. They aid in improving concentration, help focus the mind and decrease impulse-driven behaviour. They are able to be prescribed legally as ADHD medications. They are also abused as illegal substances such as cocaine and methamphetamines in order to boost energy and feelings of wellbeing.
The most commonly used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you might have heard of by the brand name Ritalin. medication for adhd adults increases the activity in the brain regions that regulate attention and behavior, which helps increase concentration and decreases hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets that are taken every 2 or 3 times per day or modified-release capsules which release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates specific areas of the brain, which improves concentration and helps to focus the mind. It also helps to reduce the impulsive behavior. It is usually prescribed to teenagers, adults and children above the age of 5 if methylphenidate does not help. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are typically taken in two or three doses a day. Atomoxetine is a different medication from the rest and is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children (age 5+) who are unable to take methylphenidate or 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 improve concentration and control of impulses. It is taken daily in the form of a tablet, or as an oral solution.
A large number of randomized controlled trials and observational studies examined the benefits and harms of the treatment for adults adhd. These studies have compared different treatments to placebos or other drugs, but none included head-tohead trials. This study combines the results of these trials using a method known as a network meta-analysis. This is the largest analysis of ADHD to date and strengthens NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults with ADHD.
The results show that a high percentage of people with ADHD are able to benefit from a medication. However, it is essential to weigh the benefits and risks of taking it. It is recommended to talk to a physician about this and, if needed you can take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition with other methods, including therapies and lifestyle changes. It is also essential to determine any medical conditions that could cause or exacerbate ADHD-like symptoms, such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are crucial in assessing for possible causes for the symptoms. Patients with an extensive history of alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with care. A referral to a specialist could be required. Patients with a history of serious developmental or mental disorders should be evaluated more carefully and referred to specialists for any necessary tests and assessments. This could include a thorough family history, since genetic factors have been known to play a part in ADHD.