Adult ADHD Medication
You may require medication if environmental changes do not allow you to succeed at school or work. These medications may be short-acting or long-acting, and include the methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) as well as amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication prescribed. They are offered first unless you have another medical condition that requires a different medication.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the activity of brain regions that control attention and behavior. They help improve concentration, help focus the mind and reduce impulse behaviour. They are able to be prescribed legally as ADHD medication. They can also be used as illegal substances such as copyright and methamphetamines in order to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
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 regions that regulate attention and behavior, which helps improves concentration and reduces the impulsive and hyperactive behavior. It can be taken in the form of tablets that release immediately that are taken two or three times per day, or modified-release capsules which release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine stimulates certain areas of the brain, which improves concentration and helps to focus the mind. It also helps to reduce impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate fails to work, it is usually prescribed to adults, teens and children over five years old. Lisdexamfetamine is usually given as immediate-release tablets which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine is different from the other medications mentioned above and is offered to teenagers, adults and children (aged 5+) who are unable to use lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate due to adverse effects here or other causes. It 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 once daily in the form of a tablet, or an oral solution.
A large number of randomized controlled trials and observational studies looked at the advantages and disadvantages of the treatment for adults adhd. These studies have compared different medications with placebos or one another but not all included head-tohead trials. This study combines the findings of those trials by using a technique known as network meta-analysis. This is the biggest study of ADHD to date and reinforces NICE's guidelines regarding prescribing medication for adult ADHD.
The results show that a substantial proportion of people with ADHD will benefit from taking medication. It is essential to carefully examine the benefits and risks prior to taking any medication. Discuss this with your doctor and, if needed implement measures to treat symptoms by using other treatments like treatment or lifestyle adjustments. It is important to identify medical conditions such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy which can trigger or worsen ADHD symptoms. A thorough history and examination is essential in determining possible causes for the symptoms. Patients who have an extensive history of drug or alcohol abuse should be treated with extreme care. A referral to a specialist could be required. Patients with histories of developmental disorders or other serious mental health problems need to be assessed more thoroughly and referred for special tests and evaluations if necessary. This can include a detailed family history, as genetic factors have been identified to play a part in ADHD.