ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help those with ADHD focus better, become less impulsive, and feel more peaceful. It usually involves a combination of medicine and therapy.
Stimulants increase activity in parts of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is one of the most commonly used medications to treat adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that increase brain activity in the areas that control attention and behavior. They are usually prescribed in combination with cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders (CBT). Stimulants work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine as well as dopamine, in your brain. This helps you to concentrate and lessens the effects of certain impulses, such as those that cause impulsive behaviour. I Am Psychiatry of stimulants are well-tolerated by children and adults but some people might experience adverse effects, like headaches, jitteriness or increased heart rate.
There are many stimulant medicines including methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and atomoxetine. The results of the biggest network meta analysis to date, published in the British Medical Journal in 2016 suggest amphetamines to adults suffering from ADHD. The drug lisdexamfetamine is now licensed in the UK and has an advantage over stimulants that are short-acting because it doesn't fade over the course of the daytime. It also only requires one dose a day. Patients used to have take short-acting amphetamines 3 or four time a day. It was a challenge for patients to remember to take, and could lead to poor adherence.
It is essential to obtain a complete medical history to determine if a child suffering from ADHD might have other health issues which are causing their symptoms. A medical condition like thyroid disorders, sleep apnea or other ailments might be causing your child's fatigue or difficulty in concentrating. It is important to report any issues with substance abuse to your doctor. A prolonged use of prescription, over-the counter or illegal substances can affect your child's concentration.
Many medical professionals now recommend that children are medicated for ADHD to boost their school performance and allow for them to grow into happy, healthy adults. However, the decision to medicate children with ADHD is not considered lightly by parents and can be a lengthy and complicated procedure. Many children will experience side-effects, such as irritability and insomnia however, these can be cured by careful monitoring and gradually increasing dosages.
Some parents opt to seek private treatment for their child, which involves regular appointments with a specialist psychiatrist to get started on medication and track the progress. This could involve up to five appointments and thereafter, fortnightly or monthly appointments when the child is accustomed 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. Your GP will receive a detailed report on the progress of your child. They will then monitor the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain instances you might be referred back to the NHS for this to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of any medications that have been prescribed to your child. He or she can conduct regular checks and reviews.