ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can assist those who have ADHD to focus better, feel calmer and less dependent. It is typically an amalgamation of medication and therapy.
Stimulants increase brain activity in areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is one of the most frequently prescribed medications to treat adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that boost activity in the parts of the brain responsible for attention and behaviour. They are usually prescribed in combination with cognitive therapy for behavioural problems (CBT). Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine within your brain. This makes it easier for you to concentrate and decreases the impact of certain impulses, such as those that trigger impulsive behavior. best adhd medication for adults uk of stimulants are well-tolerated by children and adults but certain people may experience adverse effects, like jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.
There are many stimulant medications, including methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and atomoxetine. The results of the largest network meta-analysis to date, published by the British Medical Journal in 2016 suggest amphetamines to adults suffering from ADHD. The drug lisdexamfetamine, now also approved for use in the UK is a benefit over amphetamines with shorter durations of action because it is less likely to become stale during the day, and requires only one dose per day. Previously, patients would have had to take short-acting stimulants three or four times per day, but this can be difficult for those who fail to take their medication, and can cause poor compliance.
It is important to get an entire medical history to determine if a person suffering from ADHD may have other conditions which are causing their symptoms. For instance, a medical condition like sleep apnea or thyroid problems could cause your child to be exhausted or have difficulty concentrating. You should also mention any problems with addiction to your doctor. The use of prescription, over-the-counter or illegal substances can impact your child's ability to concentrate.
Many medical professionals now recommend that children be treated for ADHD to improve their school performance and make it possible for them to develop into happy, healthy adults. Parents aren't rushing to decide whether or not they should medicate their child for ADHD. It is a lengthy and complex process. Many children will experience side effects, such as irritability, insomnia and anxiety, but most times, these can be overcome with a careful monitoring and gradual increase of dosages.
Some parents decide to seek private treatment for their child, which entails an ongoing series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist in order to get started on medication and monitor progress. This could involve five or more appointments and then fortnightly or monthly appointments as the child gets used to the medication. This is a great option for many families who are finding the NHS waiting lists to be extremely long and for whom private healthcare can offer more efficient access to care. A thorough report of your child's progress will be sent to your GP who will then carry out the monitoring of the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain instances you might be referred back to the NHS for this procedure to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of all medication that has been prescribed to your child and can conduct regular reviews and checks.