ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help those suffering from ADHD focus better, be less impulsive and feel calmer. It is usually a combination of therapy and medicine.
Stimulants boost activity in the parts of the brain that regulate attention and behaviour. Methylphenidate is also referred to as Ritalin, is one of most frequently prescribed medicines for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that boost activity in parts of the brain that regulate attention and behaviour. They are typically prescribed in combination with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). They work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine, inside your brain. This makes it easier for you to concentrate and decreases the impact of certain impulses, such as those that cause impulsive behaviour. The majority of stimulants are well-tolerated by both adults and children. However, some people might experience adverse effects, like jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.
There are many different stimulant medications available that include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Dexamphetamine) as well as atomoxetine (Strattera) and modafinil (Provigil). The results of the biggest network meta-analysis to date, published in the British Medical Journal in 2016, support amphetamines as first-choice drugs for adults with ADHD. The drug lisdexamfetamine is now licensed in the UK and has a distinct advantage over stimulants that are short-acting because it doesn't disappear throughout the day. It only requires one dose per day. Patients had take short-acting amphetamines 3 or four times a day. It was a challenge for patients to remember to take, and could lead to poor adherence.
A thorough medical history is essential to determine if the person suffering from ADHD has any other health issues that could be contributing to their symptoms. For instance, a medical condition like sleep apnea, or thyroid disorders might be causing your child to be exhausted or have trouble focusing. It is important to report any issues with substance abuse to your doctor. A prolonged usage of prescription, over the counter or illegal drugs could impact your child's ability to concentrate.
Many medical professionals are now recommending that children be treated for ADHD to improve their school performance and allow for them to grow into healthy, happy adults. However the decision to medicate a child with 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, however most times, these can be overcome with a cautious monitoring and gradual increase of dosages.
Some parents opt for private treatment, which includes regular appointments with a psychiatrist to start medication and monitor the progress. This could involve up to five sessions, then fortnightly or monthly sessions as the child gets used to the medication. adhd without medication is an excellent option for families who find the NHS waiting lists to be very long, and those who have private healthcare that can provide more streamlined access to care. Your GP will receive a comprehensive report on the progress of your child. He or she can then monitor the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In some cases you could be asked to return to the NHS to continue this process to ensure that your GP is aware of all medications that have been prescribed to your child. They can conduct regular reviews and checks.