Adult ADHD Medication
You may require medication if environmental changes aren't enough for you to be successful in school or at work. These medications may be either long-acting or short-acting and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) and amphetamines salts.
In the UK, stimulants are the most frequently prescribed ADHD medication. If you do not have any other condition that requires a different medication, stimulants are usually prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase the activity in the parts of the brain that regulate attention and behaviour. They improve concentration, help focus the mind and reduce impulsive behaviour. They can be prescribed legally as ADHD medication. They can also be used in the form of illegal drugs like methamphetamine and copyright in order to boost energy levels and feel of wellbeing.
The most commonly used stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you might have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It boosts the activity of the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which increase concentration and decreases the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken in the form of immediate-release tablets that are taken every 2 or 3 times per day, or as modified-release capsules that release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates certain areas of the brain to improve concentration, help focus the mind and reduce impulsive behaviour. It is typically prescribed to adults, teenagers and children above five years of age if methylphenidate does not help. Lisdexamfetamine is typically given as immediate-release tablets which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine is a distinct medication from the others and is recommended to teenagers, adults and children (age 5+) who are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to side effects. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain, which transmits messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and control of impulses. It is taken daily as a tablet or an oral solution.
A vast number of randomized controlled trials and observational studies examined the benefits and harms of treatment for adults with adhd. These studies compared the different medicines to placebos or other drugs, but not all included head-tohead studies. This study blends the results of these trials using a method called network meta-analysis. This is the biggest study of ADHD to date and reinforces NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
The findings indicate that a substantial proportion of people suffering from ADHD will benefit from taking medication. It is important to carefully examine the benefits and risks prior to taking any medication. People should read more discuss this with a doctor and, if needed, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition using other methods, including therapies and lifestyle adjustments. It is also essential to recognize any medical condition that could cause or exacerbate symptoms similar to ADHD, like sleep apnea, narcolepsy thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. A thorough examination and history is essential in determining possible causes for the symptoms. Patients who have a history of serious alcohol or drug abuse should be treated with care. They may require referral to a specialist. Patients who have a history of developmental disorders or other serious mental health issues need to be assessed more thoroughly and recommended for special evaluations and tests as necessary. This may include a more detailed history of the family history of the patient because genetic factors are believed to play a part in ADHD.