Adult ADHD Medication
If changes to the environment aren't enough to help you succeed at school or work, you may benefit from medication. They can be short or long-acting, and include the methylphenidate family (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK, stimulants are the most frequently prescribed ADHD medications. If you do not have a condition that requires the use of a different medication, stimulants are often prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants improve the activity of brain areas which control behavior and attention. They help improve concentration, focus the mind and reduce the tendency to be impulsive. They can be legally prescribed as ADHD medications. However, they are often abused recreationally as illegal drugs like methamphetamines and cocaine to increase energy levels and feelings of wellbeing.
The most popular stimulant for ADHD is methylphenidate, which you might have heard of under the brand name Ritalin. It increases the activity in the brain regions that regulate attention and behavior, which to improve concentration and reduce excessive and impulsive behavior. It can be taken as immediate-release tablets taken 2-3 times a day or modified-release capsules that release the medication throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates certain areas of the brain to increase concentration, aids in focusing the mind and decrease impulse-driven behavior. It is typically offered to adults, teenagers and children over 5 years old when methylphenidate is not effective. Lisdexamfetamine is usually prescribed as immediate-release tablets which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine is a different medication from the others and is prescribed to teenagers, adults and children (age 5and over) that cannot take methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine because of the adverse effects. It is a selective noradrenaline inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline that is present in the brain, which transmits messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and impulse control. It is taken daily as a tablet or as an oral solution.
A large number of randomized controlled trials and observational studies have examined the benefits and harms of treatment for adults with adhd. These studies have compared different medicines to placebos or other medications, but not all included head-tohead studies. This study combines results from those trials by employing a method known as network meta-analysis. This is the most comprehensive study of ADHD to date and strengthens NICE's guidelines regarding prescribing medication for adults suffering from ADHD.
The results show that a significant percentage of people suffering from ADHD can benefit from medication. However, it is essential to carefully weigh up the risks and benefits of taking the medication. People should talk to a physician about this and, if needed, take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition with other treatments, such as therapy and lifestyle modifications. It is crucial to recognize medical conditions such as sleep apnea and narcolepsy which can trigger or worsen ADHD symptoms. In how to treat adhd without medication in adults to determine the possible causes of symptoms, a thorough history and examination is essential. Patients who have a history of serious drinking or substance abuse must be treated with care. They may need referral to a specialist. Patients with a history of serious mental disorders or developmental disorders should be evaluated more carefully and referred specialists for any necessary tests and assessments. most effective adhd medication for adults could include a more thorough history of the family history of the patient since genetic factors are known to play a role in ADHD.