ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help those suffering from ADHD focus better, be less impulsive and more relaxed. It is typically a combination of medicine and therapy.
Stimulants boost brain activity in areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is among the most commonly used medications for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that boost brain activity in areas that control attention and behavior. They are often prescribed with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The stimulants increase the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine, in your brain. This helps you to focus and reduces the impact of certain impulses, including those that trigger impulsive behavior. They are generally accepted by both adults and children. However, certain people may experience adverse effects, like jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.
There are many stimulant medications that include methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and Atomoxetine. The results from the largest network meta-analysis to date, published in the British Medical Journal in 2016 recommend amphetamines as the first choice of drugs for adults with ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, a drug that is also approved for use in the UK, has an advantage over amphetamines with shorter durations of action because it is less likely to become stale during the day, and only requires one dose per day. Patients had to take short-acting amphetamines three or four time a day. This was difficult for patients to remember to take and could result in low adherence.
It is important to get a complete medical history to determine if someone suffering from ADHD might have other health issues that contribute to their symptoms. A medical condition like sleep apnea, thyroid disorders or other ailments may be contributing to your child's fatigue or difficulty concentration. It is also important to mention any issues with substance abuse to your doctor. The use of prescription, over-the counter or illegal drugs can impact your child's ability to concentrate.
Medical professionals recommend that children be treated for ADHD to enhance their school performance and help them grow into healthy, happy adults. Parents should not rush to decide whether or not to medicate their child for ADHD. It is an extended and complicated process. A lot of children experience side-effects, such as irritability and insomnia, but these can be overcome by carefully monitoring and gradually increasing dosages.
Some parents choose to pursue private treatment for their child, which involves a series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist in order to get started on medication and monitor progress. This could involve up to five sessions then fortnightly or monthly appointments as the child becomes used to the medication. This is an excellent option for families who are finding the NHS waiting lists lengthy and those who have private healthcare that can provide a more efficient and convenient access to healthcare. A thorough report of your child's progress will be sent to your GP who will then carry out the monitoring of the medication that has been prescribed by your psychiatrist. In adhd and depression medication could be asked to return to the NHS for this to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of all medications prescribed to your child. They will conduct regular reviews and checks.