Adult ADHD Medication
If environmental modifications are not enough to help you succeed at school or work, you may be able to benefit from medication. adhd medication list are short or long-acting and include the methylphenidate family (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK, stimulants are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications. They are first prescribed in the event of a medical condition that requires a different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that help by boosting activity in the parts of the brain responsible for attention and behaviour. They help improve concentration, help focus the mind and decrease impulse-driven behaviour. They are also known as amphetamines or psychostimulants and are legal to take with prescription as ADHD medications. They are also used in the form of illegal drugs like methamphetamine and cocaine in order to boost energy and feelings of well-being.
The most popular stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you might have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It boosts activity in the brain regions that control attention and behaviour which improves concentration and decreases hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It can be taken in the form of immediate-release tablets that are taken two or three times per day, or modified-release capsules which release the medication over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain regions of the brain, which enhances concentration and helps focus the mind. It also reduces the tendency to be impulsive. If methylphenidate isn't working, it is usually prescribed to teens, adults and children who are older than five years old. adhd medication list is typically given as immediate-release tablets which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine differs from the other medications mentioned above and is offered to teenagers, adults and children (aged 5+) who are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine because of adverse effects or other causes. 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 once daily in the form of a tablet, or an oral solution.
Many randomized controlled studies as also observational studies have been conducted to determine the advantages and risks associated with drug treatment of adult adhd. These studies compared different medicines with placebos or other drugs however, not all of them have included head-tohead trials. This study blends the results from those studies employing a method known as network meta-analysis. It is the largest study of its kind for ADHD and provides evidence in NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a large percentage of people suffering from ADHD will benefit from taking medication. However, it is crucial to weigh the risks and benefits of taking the medication. Discuss this with your doctor and, if needed, implement measures to treat symptoms by using other treatments, such as treatment or lifestyle adjustments. It is also crucial to recognize any medical condition which could trigger or exacerbate symptoms of ADHD, such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, depression, and lead poisoning. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination is essential in determining possible causes of the symptoms. Patients who have a history of excessive alcohol or drug use should be treated with extreme care. They may require referral to a specialist service. Patients with histories of developmental disorders or other serious mental health issues should be evaluated more thoroughly and referred for special tests and evaluations if necessary. This can include a more thorough history of the person's family, because genetic factors are believed to play a role in ADHD.