ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help people who have ADHD to concentrate more effectively, be more calm and be less dependent. It is typically a combination of medicine and therapy.
Stimulants stimulate brain activity in areas that regulate the behavior of attention. Methylphenidate is also referred to as Ritalin is among the most common medicines prescribed for adults suffering from ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that increase activity in areas of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. They are typically prescribed as part of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). They work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine as well as dopamine in your brain. This aids in concentration and reduces the effects of certain impulses, such as those that trigger impulse-driven behavior. They are generally accepted by adults and children, however some people may have side effects, such as jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.
There are a variety of different stimulant medications that are available, including methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Dexamphetamine) and atomoxetine (Strattera) and modafinil (Provigil). The results of the biggest network meta analysis to date, published by the British Medical Journal in 2016 support amphetamines for adults with ADHD. The drug lisdexamfetamine is now licensed in the UK and has an advantage over short-acting stimulants as it does not fade over the course of the day. medication for adults with add is also only required one dose per day. Previously, patients would have needed to take short-acting stimulants three or four times a day, but this can be a challenge for patients who forget to take their medication, and can result in poor compliance.
It is essential to obtain an accurate medical history in order to determine if a child suffering from ADHD might have other medical conditions that contribute to their symptoms. For example medical conditions such as sleep apnea or thyroid issues could cause your child to be exhausted or have difficulty concentrating. It is also important to mention any problems with addiction to your doctor. Heavy use of prescription, over-the-counter or illegal drugs could affect your child's focus.
Medical professionals suggest that children be medicated for ADHD in order to improve their performance at school and to help them develop into happy, healthy adulthood. Parents aren't rushing to decide whether or not to treat their child for ADHD. It's an extended and complicated process. Many children will suffer from side effects such as irritability, insomnia and anxiety, but most times, these can be overcome by careful monitoring and gradual increase of dosages.
Some parents choose to seek private treatment for their child, which entails a series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist in order to begin the medication process and track the the progress. It could take up to five sessions then fortnightly or monthly sessions as the child gets used to the medication. This is an excellent option for families who find the NHS waiting lists to be very long, and those who have private healthcare that can offer more efficient access to care. A detailed report on your child's progress will be sent to your GP and they will perform the monitoring of the medication that has been prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain instances, you might require a visit to the NHS to continue this process so that your GP can perform regular reviews and checks.