adhd and medication may require medication if changes in the environment 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 the methylphenidate (such as Ritalin), and amphetamines salts.
In the UK stimulants are the most frequently ADHD medications prescribed. If you don't have another condition that needs the use of a different medication, stimulants are usually prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants are substances that work by increasing activity in the parts of the brain that control the behavior and attention. They increase concentration, to focus the mind and decrease the risk of impulsive behavior. They are also known as amphetamines or psychostimulants and can be legally taken with prescription as ADHD medicines. They are also abused as illegal substances such as methamphetamine and cocaine in order to boost energy levels and feel of well-being.
You may be familiar with the brand name Ritalin which is the most commonly used stimulant to treat ADHD. It increases the activity in the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which helps improves concentration and reduces hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It can be taken in the form of tablets with immediate release which are taken 2 or 3 time a day or modified-release capsules that release the medication over the course of the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medication that stimulates certain areas of the brain to increase concentration, help focus the mind and reduces impulse-driven behavior. It is typically offered to adults, teenagers and children above five years of age if methylphenidate does not help. Lisdexamfetamine tablets are usually consumed in three or more doses a day. Atomoxetine is a different medicine than the other ones and is prescribed to adults, teenagers and children (age 5and over) who are not able to take methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine due to side effects. It is a selective Noradrenaline-Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI). It increases the amount of noradrenaline which transmits messages between brain cells and increases concentration and impulse control. It is taken once daily as a tablet, or as an oral solution.
Numerous randomized controlled trials as and observational studies have been conducted to study the benefits and dangers related to the treatment of adult adhd. These studies have compared various medications with placebos or each other however, not all of them have included head-tohead trials. This study combines the results of these trials using a method called network meta-analysis. It is the most comprehensive analysis of ADHD and provides evidence behind NICE's guidelines for prescribing medications to treat adult ADHD.
The results show that a large proportion of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from a medication. But it is important to weigh the risks and benefits of taking it. Patients should talk to a physician about this and, where appropriate, take steps to manage the symptoms of the disorder with other methods, including therapy and lifestyle adjustments. It is also crucial to identify any medical conditions that could cause or exacerbate ADHD-like symptoms, such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, depression and lead poisoning. To determine adhd and medication of symptoms, a thorough history and physical examination is required. Patients with a history of serious drug or alcohol abuse should be treated with care. Referral to a specialist may be required. Patients who have had 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 required. This could include a more detailed history of the family history of the patient as genetic factors are known to play a role in ADHD.