Adult ADHD Medication
You may need medication if environmental changes are not enough for you to achieve success in school or at work. These medications can be short-acting or long-acting, and include methylphenidate (such as Ritalin) as well as amphetamine salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication prescribed. If you do not have another condition that needs a different medication, stimulants are often prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that increase the activity in the parts of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. They help improve concentration, to concentrate the mind and reduce the tendency to be impulsive. They are also known as psychostimulants or amphetamines and can be legally taken with prescription as ADHD medications. They are also abused in the form of illegal drugs like methamphetamines and cocaine to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
The most popular stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you may have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It enhances the activity in the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which improves concentration and reduces excessive and impulsive behavior. It can be taken in the form of immediate-release tablets, taken 2-3 times a day or modified-release capsules which release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medicine that stimulates certain parts of the brain to improve concentration, help focus the mind and decrease impulsive behaviour. It is typically prescribed to adults, teenagers and children over 5 years old in the event that methylphenidate doesn't help. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are usually taken in three or two doses daily. Atomoxetine is a different medicine than the other ones and is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children (age 5plus) 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, transferring messages between brain cells to improve concentration and control of impulses. It is consumed in the form of a tablet or oral solution daily.
A large number of randomized controlled trials and observational studies have studied the benefits and risks of treatment for adults with adhd. adult add medications compared treatments to placebos or other medications, but not all included head-tohead studies. This study blends the results from these trials using a technique called network meta-analysis. It is the most comprehensive analysis for ADHD and strengthens the evidence in NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications to treat adult ADHD.
The results show that a high percentage of people with ADHD can benefit from medication. But it is important to carefully weigh up the benefits and risks of taking the medication. It is recommended to discuss this with a doctor and, if needed you can take steps to manage the symptoms of the disorder with other treatments, such as therapies and lifestyle modifications. It is also important to identify any medical conditions which could trigger or exacerbate symptoms similar to ADHD, like sleep apnea, narcolepsy depression, thyroid disorders and lead poisoning. A thorough history and examination are essential to determine possible causes for the symptoms. Patients who have a history of excessive alcohol or drug use should be treated with extreme caution. A referral to a specialist could be necessary. Patients with an extensive history of mental disorders or developmental disorders should be assessed more carefully and referred to specialists for any needed tests and evaluations. This can include a more detailed account of the person's family, because genetic factors are believed to play a part in ADHD.