Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if changes in the environment do not allow you to achieve success at work or school. These medications can be long-acting or short-acting and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin), and amphetamines salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most common ADHD medication prescribed. They are offered first until you have a different medical condition that requires a different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants work by increasing the activity of brain regions which control behavior and attention. They help improve concentration, to focus the mind and decrease the tendency to be impulsive. They are also referred to as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be taken legally with prescription as ADHD medicines. However, they are commonly taken recreationally as illicit drugs like cocaine and methamphetamines to increase energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
The most popular stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you may have heard of by the brand name Ritalin. It boosts the activity of the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which helps to improve concentration and reduce the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets that are taken every 2 or 3 times per day or modified-release capsules that release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is another medicine that stimulates certain parts of the brain to increase concentration, help focus the mind and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate isn't working, it is usually prescribed to adults, teens and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are usually consumed in three or more doses daily. Atomoxetine is a different medication than the other ones and is recommended to teenagers, adults and children (age 5+) who are not able to take methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine because of the adverse effects. adhd without medication is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline found in the brain, which transmits messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and impulse control. It is taken as a tablet or an oral solution daily.
Many randomized controlled trials as and observational studies have been conducted to examine the benefits and harms related to the treatment of adult adhd. These studies have compared different medications with placebos or each other but not all included head-to-head trials. This study blends the results from those trials by employing a method known as network meta-analysis. This is the biggest study of ADHD to date and reinforces NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adult ADHD.
The results show that a high percentage of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from a medication. However, it is essential to carefully weigh up the benefits and risks of taking it. Discuss this with your doctor and, if needed, take steps to manage symptoms by using other treatments, such as treatment or lifestyle modifications. It is also important to determine any medical conditions which could trigger or exacerbate ADHD-like symptoms, such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are essential to determine possible causes of the symptoms. Patients with a history of extreme alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with extreme care. Referral to a specialist may be necessary. Patients who have an extensive history of developmental or mental disorders should be assessed more closely and referred to specialists for any necessary tests and evaluations. This could include a thorough family history, since genetic factors have been proven to be a factor in ADHD.