ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help people with ADHD focus better, be less impulsive and more relaxed. It is typically a combination of medication and therapy.
Stimulants increase activity in parts of the brain that control attention and behavior. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is one of the most commonly used medications for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that increase activity in the parts of the brain responsible for attention and behaviour. They are typically used in conjunction with cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders (CBT). The stimulants increase the levels dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. This allows you to concentrate and decreases the impact of certain impulses, like those that cause impulsive behaviour. They are generally accepted by children and adults but some people may have side effects, such as jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.
There are adhd without medication of different stimulant drugs available such as methylphenidate (Ritalin), 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 medications for adults suffering from ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, a drug that is also approved for use in the UK is a benefit over shorter-acting amphetamines because it is less likely to wear off during the day and requires only one dose per day. Patients used to have take short-acting amphetamines 3 or four times a day. It was a challenge for patients to remember to take and could lead to low adherence.
It is crucial to take a complete medical history to determine if a person with ADHD may have other conditions that are contributing to their symptoms. For instance medical conditions like sleep apnea, or thyroid problems could cause your child to be exhausted or have trouble focusing. You should also mention any problems with addiction to your doctor. The use of prescription, over-the-counter or illegal drugs could impact your child's ability to concentrate.
Many medical professionals recommend that children are treated for ADHD to improve their school performance and make it possible for them to grow into happy, healthy adults. Parents are not rushing to decide whether or not they should medicate their child for ADHD. It can be a lengthy and complex procedure. Many children suffer from side effects like insomnia, irritability and anxiety, but most of the time these can be overcome by cautious monitoring and gradual increase in dosage.
Some parents choose private treatment that includes a series appointments with a psychiatrist to start medication and track the progress. It could take up to five appointments and subsequent fortnightly or monthly visits when the child is accustomed to the medication. This is an ideal option for families who are finding the NHS waiting lists lengthy and those who have private healthcare that can offer more efficient access to care. Your GP will receive a comprehensive report on your child's progress. He or she will then follow the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In some instances, you may require a visit to the NHS to continue this process to ensure that your GP will be able to conduct regular reviews and checks.