ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can assist those who suffer from ADHD to concentrate more effectively, be more calm and less impulsive. It's usually a mix of therapy and medication.
Stimulants increase brain activity in areas that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin is among the most frequently prescribed medicines for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medications which increase brain activity in the areas that regulate attention and behavior. They are typically prescribed as part of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The stimulants increase the levels norepinephrine, and dopamine in your brain. This allows you to concentrate and decreases the effects of certain impulses, including those that cause impulsive behaviour. Children and adults can tolerate stimulants well, but certain individuals may experience adverse effects such as jitteriness or headaches.
There are medications for adhd in adults of stimulant drugs including methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and Atomoxetine. The results of the biggest meta-analysis of the network to date, published in the British Medical Journal in 2016 confirm that amphetamines are the best choice of medications for adults suffering from ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, a drug that is also licensed for use in the UK is a benefit over amphetamines with shorter durations of action because it is less likely to be absorbed during the day, and requires only one dose daily. Prior to this, patients needed to take short-acting stimulants 3 or 4 times per day, but this can be a challenge for those who forget to take their medication and could cause poor adhering to the medication.
It is crucial to take a complete medical history to determine if a person suffering from ADHD may have other conditions which are causing their symptoms. A medical issue such as sleep apnea, thyroid disorders or other conditions may be contributing to your child's fatigue or difficulty concentrating. It is also important to mention any substance abuse issues to your doctor, because excessive use of illegal prescription or over the counter drugs could affect your child's ability of concentrating.
Medical professionals recommend that children receive medication for ADHD to enhance their academic performance and help them grow into a healthy, happy adulthood. Parents should not rush to decide whether or not they should medicate their child for ADHD. It is an extensive and complex process. Many children will experience side effects like irritability or insomnia, but these can be managed by careful monitoring and gradually increasing dosages.
Some parents choose to seek out private treatment for their child, which entails regular appointments with a specialist psychiatrist to start the medication and monitor the progress. This could include five or more sessions followed by monthly or fortnightly appointments as the child becomes used to the medication. Many families find that NHS waiting lists are incredibly long, and private healthcare offers a more efficient approach to treatment. Your GP will receive a comprehensive report on your child's progress. They will then follow the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In some cases you could be asked to return to the NHS for this to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of any medications that have been prescribed to your child. They can conduct regular checks and reviews.
