ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can assist those with ADHD to focus better, feel calmer and less dependent. It is usually a combination of medicine and therapy.
Stimulants stimulate the areas of the brain that control the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate is also known as Ritalin, is one of most common medicines prescribed for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that increase activity in areas of the brain that control attention and behavior. They are often prescribed in combination with cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders (CBT). The stimulants increase the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine, inside your brain. This helps you to concentrate and decreases the effects of certain impulses, like those that cause impulsive behaviour. Stimulants are generally well tolerated by adults and children, however some people might experience adverse effects, like jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.
There are many stimulant medicines, 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 drugs for adults suffering from ADHD. The drug lisdexamfetamine is now approved in the UK and has a distinct advantage over short-acting stimulants as it doesn't disappear throughout the daytime. It is also only required one dose a day. In the past, patients required short-acting stimulants 3 or 4 times a day, but this isn't always easy for patients who forget to take their medication and may cause poor adherence.
A thorough medical history is necessary to help determine whether a person with ADHD has any other health issues that may be causing their symptoms. For example medical conditions such as sleep apnea or thyroid disorders might cause your child to feel exhausted or have difficulty concentrating. It is important to report any problems with addiction to your doctor. Heavy use of prescription, over-the-counter or illegal drugs can impact your child's ability to concentrate.
Medical professionals suggest that children be medicated for ADHD to improve their academic performance and help them grow into a healthy, happy adulthood. Parents are not rushing to decide whether or not they should medicate their child for ADHD. It is an extensive and complex process. A lot of children experience side-effects like irritability or insomnia however, these can be overcome by carefully monitoring dosages and gradually increasing dosages.
Some parents decide to seek private treatment for their child. This involves an ongoing series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist in order to get started on medication and track progress. adhd anxiety medication could involve five or more appointments and then fortnightly or monthly appointments when the child is accustomed to the medication. Many families are surprised to learn that NHS waiting lists are very long, and private healthcare provides a more streamlined approach to care. Your GP will receive a comprehensive assessment of your child's health. He or she can then follow the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain cases you might be referred back to the NHS for this procedure to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of any medications that have been prescribed to your child and will conduct regular checks and reviews.