Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if the changes in your environment aren't enough for you to succeed at work or school. These are short or long-acting, and include the methylphenidate family (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medication prescribed. They are first prescribed in the event of a condition that requires different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that help by boosting activity in the parts of the brain responsible for the behaviour and attention. They improve concentration, help focus the mind and reduce the tendency to be impulsive. They are also referred to as amphetamines or psychostimulants. They are legal to take with a prescription as ADHD medicines. However, they are frequently taken recreationally as illicit drugs like cocaine and methamphetamines to boost energy levels and feelings of well-being.
You might recognize the brand name Ritalin which is the most commonly used stimulant to treat ADHD. It stimulates the areas of the brain that control attention and behaviour which improves concentration and reduces impulsive and hyperactive behaviour. It is available in the form of tablets that release immediately that are taken two or three times a day, or modified-release capsules which release the medication over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is another medicine that stimulates specific areas of the brain to improve concentration, helps focus the mind and reduce impulsive behaviour. If methylphenidate isn't working it is usually prescribed to teens, adults and children older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine is usually prescribed in tablets with immediate release that are which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine differs from the other medications mentioned that are listed above and is available to adults, teens and children (aged 5plus) who cannot use methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine because of negative side effects or for other reasons. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline found in the brain, transferring messages between brain cells to improve concentration and control of impulses. It is taken daily as a tablet, or as an oral solution.
Many randomized controlled trials as and observational studies have been conducted to study the benefits and harms that are associated with treatment for adult adhd. These studies have compared various medications with placebos or one another 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 analysis of ADHD to date and strengthens NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a substantial proportion of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication. But it is important to consider the risks and benefits of taking it. Discuss the matter with your physician and, if needed implement measures to treat symptoms using other treatments such as therapy or lifestyle adjustments. It is essential to identify medical conditions such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy that may cause or exacerbate ADHD symptoms. how to treat adhd without medication in adults and history is essential in determining possible causes for the symptoms. Patients who have an extensive history of alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with care. Referral to a specialist may be required. Patients with histories of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems should be evaluated more thoroughly and referred to special evaluations and tests as required. This can include a more thorough history of the family history of the patient because genetic factors are believed to play a part in ADHD.