ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help those with ADHD to focus better, feel more relaxed and less impatient. It is typically an amalgamation of medication and therapy.
Stimulants stimulate brain activity in areas that regulate behavior and attention. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is among the most commonly used medications for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs that boost activity in areas of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. They are usually prescribed in conjunction with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). They work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine as well as dopamine, in your brain. This helps you focus and reduces the effects of certain impulses like those that can trigger impulse-driven behavior. Adults and children tolerate stimulants well, however some may experience side effects like jitteriness and headaches.
There are many stimulant medicines including methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and atomoxetine. The results of the largest meta-analysis of the network to date, published in the British Medical Journal in 2016, support amphetamines as first-choice drugs for adults with ADHD. Iam Psychiatry is a drug licensed for use in the UK, has an advantage over amphetamines that have a shorter acting duration because it is less likely to become stale during the day, and only requires one dose per day. Patients used to the option of taking short-acting amphetamines three or four time a day. It was a challenge for patients to remember to take and could result in poor adherence.
A thorough medical history is important to determine if the person suffering from ADHD is suffering from any other medical conditions that may be causing their symptoms. For instance medical conditions like sleep apnea or thyroid issues could cause your child to be tired or having difficulty concentrating. You should also mention any issues with substance abuse to your doctor. A prolonged usage of prescription, over the counter or illegal substances can affect your child's concentration.
Medical professionals advise that children be medicated for ADHD to improve their school performance and to help them develop 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 will experience side-effects like irritability or insomnia However, these effects can be overcome by carefully monitoring dosages and gradually increasing dosages.
Some parents opt for private treatment that includes regular appointments with a psychiatrist to start medication and track progress. It could take up to five appointments, and then fortnightly or monthly appointments when the child is accustomed to the medication. This is a great option for many families who are finding the NHS waiting lists to be extremely long and those who have private healthcare that can offer more efficient access to healthcare. Your GP will receive a detailed assessment of your child's health. They will then follow the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain instances you could be asked to return to the NHS for this procedure to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of any medications prescribed to your child. They will conduct regular reviews and checks.