ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD

Treatment can assist those who suffer from ADHD to concentrate better, feel more relaxed and be less dependent. It is usually an amalgamation of medication and therapy.

Stimulants stimulate the areas of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is also known as Ritalin is one of the most frequently prescribed medicines for adults with ADHD.

Stimulants

Stimulants are drugs that increase brain activity in the areas that control attention and behavior. They are often prescribed with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Stimulants work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine, in your brain. This helps you to concentrate and decreases the effects of certain impulses, such as those that trigger impulsive behavior. Adults and children tolerate stimulants well, however there are some who may experience side effects like jitteriness or headaches.

There are many stimulant medications including methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and atomoxetine. The results of the biggest network meta analysis to date, published by the British Medical Journal in 2016 suggest amphetamines to adults suffering from ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, a drug that is also licensed for use in the UK, has an advantage over shorter-acting amphetamines because it is less likely to be absorbed during the day, and requires only one dose daily. In the past, patients required short-acting stimulants up to four times a day, but this isn't always easy for those who fail to take their medication, and can 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. A medical issue such as thyroid disorders, sleep apnea or other ailments may be contributing to your child's fatigue or difficulties 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 can have an impact on your child's ability types of Adhd medication concentrating.

Medical professionals suggest that children be treated for ADHD in order to improve their performance at school and help them grow into a healthy, happy adulthood. However the decision to treat children with adhd inattentive type medication is not taken lightly by parents and can be a long and difficult procedure. Many children will experience side-effects like irritability or insomnia, but these can be overcome by carefully monitoring and gradually increasing dosages.

Some parents opt to pursue private treatment for their child, which involves an ongoing series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist to begin the medication process and monitor their progress. This could involve up to five appointments and thereafter, fortnightly or monthly appointments as the child becomes used to the medication. Many families are surprised to learn that NHS waiting lists are incredibly long, and private health care offers a more efficient approach to care. A thorough report of your child's development will be provided to your GP and they will perform the monitoring of the medication for inattentive adhd and anxiety that has been prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain cases you could be asked to return to the NHS for this to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of any medications that have been prescribed to your child. They will conduct regular reviews and checks.