ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD

Treatment can assist those who suffer from ADHD to concentrate more effectively, be more calm and less impatient. It usually involves a mix between medicine and therapy.

medication for adult adhd boost brain activity in areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is also known as Ritalin is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for adults suffering from ADHD.


Stimulants

Stimulants are medicines that boost brain activity in the areas that control behavior and attention. They are often prescribed with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The stimulants boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within your brain. This allows you to concentrate and lessens the effect of certain impulses, including those that trigger impulsive behavior. The majority of stimulants are well-tolerated by adults and children, however some people might experience negative effects, including headaches, jitteriness, or increased heart rate.

There are many stimulant medications including methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and atomoxetine. The results of the biggest network meta-analysis to date, published by the British Medical Journal in 2016 suggest amphetamines to adults suffering from ADHD. The drug lisdexamfetamine is now licensed in the UK and has a distinct advantage over short-acting stimulants because it does not disappear throughout the daytime. It only requires one dose per day. Patients used to have to take short-acting amphetamines three or four time a day. It was a challenge for patients to remember to take, and could lead to an inability to adhere.

A thorough medical history is essential to determine if an individual suffering from ADHD has any other conditions which could be contributing to their symptoms. A medical condition like thyroid disorders, sleep apnea or other ailments might be causing your child's exhaustion or difficulty concentration. It is also important to mention any substance abuse problems to your doctor. Heavy use of prescription, over-the-counter or illegal drugs could impact your child's ability to concentrate.

Many medical professionals are now recommending that children are treated for ADHD to enhance their school performance and allow for them to develop into healthy, happy adults. Parents aren't rushing to decide whether or not to medicate their child for ADHD. It's an extended and complicated procedure. A lot of children experience side-effects, such as irritability and insomnia however, these can be cured by careful monitoring and gradually increasing dosages.

Some parents decide to seek private treatment for their child, which involves an ongoing series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist to begin the medication process and track the progress. This could involve five or more sessions followed by fortnightly or month-to-month sessions as the child gets used to the medication. Many families find that NHS waiting lists are incredibly long, and private health care is a more efficient method to care. A detailed report of your child's progress will be shared with your GP and they will monitor the medication that has been 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 medication that has been prescribed to your child and can carry out regular reviews and checks.