ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help those with ADHD to concentrate more effectively, be more calm and be less impulsive. It usually involves a mix of therapy and medication.
Stimulants increase brain activity in the areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medications that increase activity in the parts of the brain that control the behavior and attention. They are often used in conjunction with cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders (CBT). Stimulants work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. This makes it easier for you to concentrate and decreases the effects of certain impulses, such as those that cause impulsive behaviour. The majority of stimulants are well-tolerated by both adults and children. However, some people might experience negative effects, including jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.
There are many different stimulant drugs available that include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Dexamphetamine) and Atomoxetine (Strattera) and modafinil (Provigil). The results of the biggest meta-analysis of a network to date published in the British Medical Journal in 2016, support amphetamines as first-choice medications for adults suffering from ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, a drug, is licensed in the UK and has an advantage over stimulants that are short-acting because it doesn't fade over the course of the day. It is also only required one dose per day. Previously, patients would have required short-acting stimulants 3 or 4 times per day, but this isn't always easy for those who forget to take their medication, and could cause poor adhering to the medication.
A thorough medical history is necessary to help determine whether a person with ADHD has any other health issues which could be contributing to their symptoms. For instance an illness such as sleep apnea or thyroid issues could cause your child to feel exhausted or have difficulty concentrating. It is also important to bring up any substance abuse issues to your doctor, since excessive use of illegal prescription or over the counter drugs could affect your child's ability to concentrate.
Many medical professionals are now recommending that children be treated for ADHD to improve their school performance and make it possible for them to develop into happy, healthy adults. However the decision to treat children with ADHD is not made lightly by parents and can be a long and difficult procedure. A lot of children experience side-effects, such as irritability and insomnia, but these can be managed by careful monitoring dosages and gradually increasing dosages.
Some parents choose to pursue private treatment for their child. This involves a series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist to get started on medication and track the the progress. This could involve up to five appointments, and subsequent fortnightly or monthly visits as the child becomes used to the medication. This is an ideal option for families who are finding the NHS waiting lists to be very long, and for whom private healthcare can provide a more efficient and convenient access to care. Your GP will be provided with a thorough report on the progress of your child. medications for adhd in adults or she will then follow the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In some cases, you may return to the NHS for this to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of all medications that have been prescribed to your child. He or she can carry out regular reviews and checks.