adult adhd Medication uk ADHD Medication
If changes to the environment aren't enough to allow you to succeed in school or at work, you may benefit from
medications used to treat adhd. They can be short or long acting, and include the methylphenidate family (such as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts.
In the UK, stimulants are the most frequently prescribed ADHD medications. If you don't have any other condition that requires the use of a different medication, stimulants are typically prescribed first.
Stimulants
Stimulants work by increasing activity in areas of the brain that control attention and behaviour. They can help improve concentration, focus the mind and decrease impulse-driven behaviour. They can be legally prescribed as ADHD medications. They are also used as illegal drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamines in order to increase energy levels and feelings of well-being.
You might be familiar with the brand name Ritalin that is the
most common adhd medication uk widely used stimulant for treating ADHD. It increases the activity in the brain areas that control attention and behavior, which improves concentration and reduces hyperactive and impulsive behaviour. It is available in the form of tablets with immediate release that are taken two or three times per day or modified-release capsules that release the medicine throughout the day.
Lisdexamfetamine is another medicine that stimulates certain areas of the brain to increase concentration, aids in focusing the mind and reduce the risk of impulsive behavior. If methylphenidate isn't working it is usually prescribed to teens, adults and children who are older than five years old. Lisdexamfetamine is typically given as immediate-release tablets which are taken two or three times per day. Atomoxetine is different from the other medications listed which are available to teens, adults, and children (aged 5and over) who are unable to use lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate due to side effects or other reasons. It is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain, which transmits messages between brain cells to enhance concentration and impulse control. It is taken as a tablet or an oral solution every day.
Numerous randomized controlled trials as also observational studies have been conducted to study the benefits and harms associated with drug treatment of adult adhd. These studies compared medicines to placebos or other drugs, but not all included head-tohead studies. This study combines the findings of these trials using a method known as a network meta-analysis. This is the biggest analysis of ADHD to date and strengthens NICE's guidelines on prescribing medication for adults suffering from ADHD.
The research suggests that a significant proportion of people with ADHD can benefit from medication. It is important to carefully consider the benefits and risks prior to taking any medication. Patients should talk to a physician about this and, where appropriate you can take steps to manage the symptoms of the condition using other treatments, such as treatment and lifestyle adjustments. It is important to identify medical conditions such as sleep apnea or narcolepsy which can trigger or worsen ADHD symptoms. A thorough medical history and a thorough examination are crucial in assessing for possible causes of the symptoms. Patients with an extensive history of alcohol or drug abuse should be treated very carefully. A referral to a specialist could be required. Patients
who can prescribe medication for adhd have a history of serious mental disorders or developmental disorders should be assessed more closely and referred to specialists for any tests and assessments. This could include a more detailed account of the person's family, as genetic factors are known to play a role in ADHD.