ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help those who have ADHD to concentrate better, feel more relaxed and be less impulsive. It usually involves a combination of medication and therapy.
Stimulants stimulate the areas of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin is one of the most frequently prescribed medicines for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that increase activity in the parts of the brain that control attention and behaviour. 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 makes it easier for you to concentrate and lessens the effect of certain impulses, like ones that can trigger impulsive behavior. They are generally accepted by children and adults but certain people may experience side effects, such as headaches, jitteriness, or increased heart rate.
There are many stimulant medicines that include 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 support amphetamines for adults with ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine is currently approved in the UK and has a distinct advantage over stimulants that are short-acting because it does not fade over the course of the day. It is also only required one dose a day. In the past, patients had to take short-acting stimulants up to four times a day, but this isn't always easy for patients who forget to take their medication, and can result in poor adherence.
It is important to get a complete medical history to determine if a child with ADHD may have other conditions which are causing their symptoms. A medical condition such as sleep apnea, thyroid disorders or other ailments could be causing your child's fatigue or difficulty in concentrating. It is also worth mentioning any issues with substance abuse to your doctor, because excessive use of illegal prescription or over-the-counter medications can have an impact on your child's ability to concentrate.
adhd medication uk suggest that children be medicated for ADHD to improve their school performance and help them grow into a healthy, happy adulthood. Parents are not rushing to decide whether or not to treat their child for ADHD. It is an extended and complicated process. Many children will experience side effects, like insomnia, irritability and anxiety, but the majority of the time these can be overcome with a carefully monitored and gradual increase in dosage.
Some parents opt to seek private treatment for their child. This involves a series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist to get started on medication and track progress. This could include up to five sessions, followed by monthly or fortnightly sessions as the child gets used to the medication. Many families are surprised to learn that NHS waiting lists are extremely long, while private healthcare is a more efficient method to care. A detailed report on your child's development will be provided to your GP, who can then monitor the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In some cases you may have to visit the NHS to continue this process to ensure that your GP can conduct regular reviews and checks.