ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help those with ADHD focus better, become less impulsive and feel calmer. It is usually a combination of medication and therapy.
Stimulants increase brain activity in areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is among the most common medicines used for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that increase brain activity in the areas that control attention and behavior. They are usually prescribed in combination with cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders (CBT). The stimulants boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. This allows you to concentrate and decreases the effect of certain impulses, such as those that trigger impulsive behavior. Children and adults can tolerate stimulants well, however there are some who may experience side effects like jitteriness and headaches.
There are a number of different stimulant medications available, including methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine (Dexamphetamine), Atomoxetine (Strattera) and modafinil (Provigil). The results of the largest network meta-analysis to date, published in the British Medical Journal in 2016 support amphetamines for adults with ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, a drug, is licensed in the UK and has an advantage over short-acting stimulants because it doesn't fade over the course of the daytime. It is also only required one dose per day. Patients had the option of taking short-acting amphetamines three or four times a day. This was difficult for patients to remember to take, and could result in low adherence.
A thorough medical history is important to help determine whether an individual suffering from ADHD has any other conditions that may be causing their symptoms. For example, a medical condition like sleep apnea, or thyroid disorders might be causing your child to feel tired or having difficulty concentrating. medications for adhd is also important to mention any problems with addiction to your doctor. Heavy use of prescription, over-the counter or illegal substances can impact your child's ability to concentrate.
Medical professionals recommend that children receive medication for ADHD in order to improve their academic performance and help them grow into healthy, happy adults. However the decision to medicate a child for ADHD is not taken lightly by parents and can be a lengthy and difficult procedure. A lot of children will have side effects, such as irritability, insomnia and anxiety, but most times, these are able to be overcome through careful monitoring and gradual increase in dosage.
medications for adhd in adults decide to seek out private treatment for their child, which involves a series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist in order to begin the medication process and monitor their progress. This could involve up to five appointments, and then fortnightly or monthly appointments when the child is accustomed to the medication. This is an excellent option for families who are finding the NHS waiting lists lengthy and those who have private healthcare that can provide a more efficient and convenient access to care. A detailed report of your child's development will be provided to your GP, who can then monitor the medication that has been prescribed by your psychiatrist. In some instances, you may have to visit the NHS to continue this process so that your GP can perform regular checks and reviews.