ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD

Treatment can assist those with ADHD to focus better, feel calmer and be less impulsive. It's usually a mix of therapy and medication.

Stimulants increase activity in parts of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for adults suffering from ADHD.

Stimulants

Stimulants are drugs that boost activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and behaviour. They are typically prescribed in combination with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). medication for adult adhd boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. This allows you to concentrate and decreases the impact of certain impulses, like ones that can trigger impulsive behavior. The majority of stimulants are well-tolerated by children and adults but certain people may experience negative effects, including jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.


There are a number of different stimulant medications available that include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Dexamphetamine) as well as atomoxetine (Strattera) and modafinil (Provigil). The results from the largest meta-analysis of the network to date, published in the British Medical Journal in 2016 confirm that amphetamines are the best choice of drugs for adults with ADHD. The drug lisdexamfetamine is now licensed in the UK and has a distinct advantage over short-acting stimulants as it doesn't wear off during the day. It also only requires only one dose a day. Patients had the option of taking short-acting amphetamines three or four time a day. This was difficult for patients to remember to take, and could lead to low adherence.

A thorough medical history is important to determine if an individual suffering from ADHD is suffering from any other medical conditions that could be contributing to their symptoms. A medical condition such as thyroid disorders, sleep apnea or other issues could be causing your child's fatigue or difficulties in concentrating. It is also important to mention any problems with addiction to your doctor. Heavy usage of prescription, over the counter or illegal drugs could impact your child's ability to concentrate.

Many medical professionals now recommend that children are treated for ADHD to boost their school performance and make it possible for them to grow into happy, healthy adults. However the decision to treat a child with ADHD is not made lightly by parents and can be a long and difficult process. Many children experience side effects, such as irritability, insomnia and anxiety, but the majority of the time, these issues can be overcome by cautious monitoring and gradual increases in dosage.

Some parents choose private treatment, which includes a series appointments with a psychiatrist in order to start medication and monitor progress. This could involve up to five appointments and subsequent fortnightly or monthly visits when the child is accustomed to the medication. This is an ideal option for families who find the NHS waiting lists lengthy and for whom private healthcare can offer more efficient access to healthcare. A detailed report on your child's progress will be sent to your GP and they will carry out the monitoring of the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain instances, you may return to the NHS for this procedure to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of any medication that has been prescribed to your child and will conduct regular reviews and checks.