ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help people who have ADHD to concentrate better, feel more relaxed and be less impatient. It's usually a mix of therapy and medication.
adhd medication for adults uk increase activity in parts of the brain responsible for attention and behaviour. Methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin is among the most common medicines prescribed for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that boost brain activity in the areas that control behavior and attention. They are often used in conjunction with cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders (CBT). They work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine, inside your brain. This helps you to focus and reduces the impact of certain impulses, such as those that cause impulsive behaviour. The majority of stimulants are well-tolerated by children and adults but some people may have side effects, such as headaches, jitteriness, or increased heart rate.
There are many stimulant medicines, including methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and atomoxetine. 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 is currently approved in the UK and has a distinct advantage over short-acting stimulants because it doesn't disappear throughout the day. It only requires only one dose a day. Patients used to have take short-acting amphetamines 3 or four times per day. This was difficult for patients to remember to take and could result in low adherence.
A thorough medical history is essential to help determine whether a person with ADHD is suffering from any other medical conditions which could be contributing to their symptoms. For example an illness like sleep apnea or thyroid disorders might cause your child to be tired or having difficulty concentrating. It is also important to mention any problems with addiction to your doctor. A prolonged usage of prescription, over the counter or illegal substances can affect your child's focus.
Many medical professionals recommend that children are treated for ADHD to enhance their school performance and allow to help them grow into happy, healthy adults. Parents are not rushing to decide whether or not to medicate their child for ADHD. It is a lengthy and complex procedure. Many children will experience side effects, such as irritability and insomnia, but these can be overcome by carefully monitoring dosages and gradually increasing dosages.
Some parents opt for private treatment that includes an ongoing series of appointments with a psychiatrist to begin treatment and monitor progress. This may involve five or more appointments and thereafter, fortnightly or monthly appointments as the child becomes used to the medication. This is an excellent option for families who are finding the NHS waiting lists to be lengthy and those who have private healthcare that can provide a more efficient and convenient access to healthcare. A detailed report of your child's progress will be shared with your GP, who can then carry out the monitoring of the medication that has been prescribed by your psychiatrist. In some instances, you may need to return to the NHS to continue this process so that your GP will be able to conduct regular reviews and checks.