ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help people who have ADHD to concentrate more effectively, be more calm and be less impatient. It's usually a mix of therapy and medication.
Stimulants boost brain activity in areas that control behavior and attention. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is among the most common medicines used to treat adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that boost activity in areas of the brain that control the behavior and attention. They are often used in conjunction with cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders (CBT). Stimulants work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, namely norepinephrine and dopamine, inside your brain. This helps you focus and lessens the effect of certain impulses, such as those that trigger impulsive behavior. Adults and children tolerate stimulants very well, but some may experience side effects like jitteriness and headaches.
There are a number of different stimulant medications that are available that include methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine (Dexamphetamine), 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 for adults with ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, a drug that is also licensed for use in the UK has a distinct advantage over shorter-acting amphetamines because it is less likely to be absorbed during the day and requires only one dose daily. Patients used to 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 a person with ADHD has any other conditions that may be causing their symptoms. A medical condition such as sleep apnea, thyroid disorders or other issues could be causing your child's fatigue or difficulty concentrating. add adult medications should also mention any substance abuse problems to your doctor. The use of prescription, over-the counter or illegal drugs could impact your child's ability to concentrate.
Many medical professionals now recommend that children be treated for ADHD to boost their school performance and make it possible for them to grow into happy, healthy adults. Parents aren't rushing to decide whether or not to treat their child for ADHD. It is an extended and complicated process. Many children will experience side effects, such as irritability and insomnia however, these can be managed by careful monitoring dosages and gradually increasing dosages.
Some parents choose to seek out private treatment for their child, which involves an ongoing series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist in order to start the medication and monitor progress. It could take up to five sessions followed by monthly or fortnightly appointments as the child becomes familiar with the medication. Many families discover that NHS waiting lists are very long, while private healthcare is a more efficient method to care. A detailed report of your child's progress will be sent to your GP, who can then monitor the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain cases you could be asked to return to the NHS to continue this process to ensure that your GP is aware of any medications prescribed to your child. He or she will conduct regular reviews and checks.