Adult ADHD Medication
If environmental modifications are not enough to allow you to succeed at school or work you could benefit from medication. 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 medication prescribed. They are offered first until you have a different health issue that requires a different treatment.
Stimulants
Stimulants work by increasing the activity of brain areas that regulate behavior and attention. They can help improve concentration, help focus the mind and decrease the tendency to engage in impulse behavior. They are also referred to as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be legally taken with the prescription of ADHD medicines. However, they are commonly used recreationally as illegal substances like copyright and methamphetamines to boost energy levels and feelings of well-being.
The most popular stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate. You may have heard of by the brand name Ritalin. It stimulates the brain areas that regulate behaviour and attention which improves concentration and reduces hyperactive and impulsive behavior. It is available in the form of tablets with immediate release, taken 2 or 3 time a day or modified-release capsules that release the medicine over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is another medicine that stimulates specific areas of the brain. It improves concentration, help focus the mind and reduces impulse-driven behavior. If methylphenidate fails to work, it is usually prescribed to teenagers, adults and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are usually taken in two or three doses a day. Atomoxetine is a different medication than the other ones and is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children (age 5plus) who are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine because of the adverse effects. It is a selective Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount of noradrenaline which sends messages between brain cells and improves the concentration and control of impulses. It is taken daily in the form of a tablet, or as an oral solution.
Many randomized controlled trials as and observational studies have been conducted to determine the benefits and harms related to the treatment of adult adhd. These studies compared different medicines with placebos or one another however, not all of them have included head-to-head trials. This more info study combines the results of these trials using a method called network meta-analysis. This is the most comprehensive study of ADHD to date and strengthens NICE's guidelines on prescribing medication for adult ADHD.
The results show that a high percentage of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from a medication. But it is important to consider the benefits and risks of taking the medication. It is recommended to discuss this with a doctor and, if necessary, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition using other treatments, such as treatment and lifestyle modifications. It is crucial to recognize medical conditions like sleep apnea or narcolepsy which can trigger or worsen ADHD symptoms. In order to identify the potential causes of symptoms, a thorough medical history and examination is essential. Patients who have a history of extreme alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme care. Referral to a specialist may be required. Patients who have an history of serious mental disorders or developmental disorders should be evaluated more carefully and referred to specialists for any tests and evaluations. This could include a more detailed history of the family history of the patient since genetic factors are known to play a part in ADHD.