ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help those with ADHD focus better, become less impulsive, and feel more peaceful. It is usually a combination of therapy and medication.
Stimulants boost activity in the parts of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. Methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin is one of the most frequently prescribed medicines for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medications that increase activity in the parts of the brain that control the behavior and attention. They are typically used in conjunction with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). They work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine as well as dopamine, in your brain. buy adhd medication uk aids in concentration and lessens the impact of certain impulses such as those that lead to impulsive behavior. Stimulants are generally well tolerated by both adults and children. However, some people may have negative effects, including headaches, jitteriness or increased heart rate.
There are a number of different stimulant medications available such as methylphenidate (Ritalin), dextroamphetamine (Dexamphetamine) as well as Atomoxetine (Strattera) and modafinil (Provigil). The results of the largest 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 approved in the UK and has a distinct advantage over short-acting stimulants because it doesn't disappear throughout the daytime. It also only requires one dose a 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 lead to low adherence.
A thorough medical history is important to determine if an individual suffering from ADHD has any other health issues that could be contributing to their symptoms. For example, a medical condition like sleep apnea, or thyroid disorders might cause your child to feel tired or having difficulty concentrating. It is also important to bring up any substance abuse issues to your doctor, as excessive use of illegal prescription or over the counter drugs could have an impact on your child's ability to concentrate.
Many medical professionals are now recommending that children are treated for ADHD to enhance their school performance and allow for them to grow into healthy, happy adults. However the decision to treat children with ADHD is not considered lightly by parents and can be a long and complicated process. Many children experience side effects, like insomnia, irritability and anxiety, however most of the time these can be overcome by carefully monitored and gradual increase of dosages.
Some parents opt for private treatment, which involves an ongoing series of appointments with a psychiatrist in order to start medication and monitor the progress. This could involve up to five appointments and thereafter, fortnightly or monthly appointments as the child gets used to the medication. This is an excellent option for families who find the NHS waiting lists very long, and those who have private healthcare that can offer more efficient access to healthcare. Your GP will receive a comprehensive report on your child's progress. He or she will then monitor the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In some instances, you may require a visit to the NHS to continue this process so that your GP can conduct regular checks and reviews.