ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help people who suffer from ADHD to concentrate better, feel more relaxed and less dependent. It is usually a combination of therapy and medicine.
Stimulants increase activity in parts of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is one of the most common medicines used to treat adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that boost brain activity in areas that control attention and behavior. They are usually prescribed in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). They work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, namely norepinephrine and dopamine, in your brain. This allows you to concentrate and decreases the effects of certain impulses, such as those that trigger impulsive behavior. The majority of stimulants are well-tolerated by adults and children, however some people might experience adverse effects, like jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.
There are a variety of different stimulant medications that are available such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Dexamphetamine) and atomoxetine (Strattera) and modafinil (Provigil). The results of the largest network meta-analysis to date, published by the British Medical Journal in 2016 support amphetamines for adults with ADHD. The drug lisdexamfetamine, now licensed for use in the UK has a distinct advantage over shorter-acting amphetamines because it is less likely to be absorbed throughout the day and only requires one dose daily. Patients had to take short-acting amphetamines three or four times per day. This was difficult for patients to remember to take and could lead to low adherence.
A thorough medical history is necessary to determine if the person suffering from ADHD is suffering from any other medical conditions that may be causing their symptoms. A medical condition such as thyroid disorders, sleep apnea or other conditions may be contributing to your child's fatigue or difficulty concentration. It is also worth mentioning any issues with the use of substances to your doctor, because excessive use of illegal prescription or over-the-counter drugs can have an impact on your child's ability of concentrating.
Medical professionals recommend that children be treated for ADHD in order to improve their performance at school and to assist them in developing into healthy, happy adults. Parents aren't rushing to decide whether or not to medicate their child for ADHD. It is an extended and complicated process. Many children will experience side effects, like insomnia, irritability and anxiety, however most of the time these can be overcome with a carefully monitored and gradual increases in dosage.
Some parents opt for private treatment that includes regular appointments with a psychiatrist to start medication and track progress. It could take up to five sessions, then fortnightly or monthly appointments as the child becomes familiar with the medication. Many families find that NHS waiting lists are extremely long, and private health care offers a more efficient approach to care. A thorough report of your child's progress will be shared with your GP who will then perform the monitoring of the medication that has been prescribed by your psychiatrist. In adhd without medication , you might have to visit the NHS to continue this process to ensure that your GP can conduct regular checks and reviews.