ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help those who have ADHD to focus better, feel calmer and less impulsive. It usually involves a combination of medication and therapy.
Stimulants increase activity in parts of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is also known as Ritalin, is one of most frequently prescribed medicines for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that boost brain activity in areas that regulate attention and behavior. They are typically prescribed as part of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The stimulants increase the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine as well as dopamine, in your brain. This improves your focus and lessens the impact of certain impulses such as those that can trigger an impulsive behavior. The majority of stimulants are well-tolerated by both adults and children. However, certain people may experience negative effects, including headaches, jitteriness, or increased heart rate.
There are a variety of stimulant drugs 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 support amphetamines for adults with ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine is currently licensed in the UK and has an advantage over stimulants that are short-acting because it does not fade over the course of the day. It only requires only one dose a day. Previously, patients would have required short-acting stimulants three or four times per day, but this isn't always easy for those who fail to take their medication and may cause a lack of compliance.
A thorough medical history is necessary to determine if the person suffering from ADHD has any other health issues which could be contributing to their symptoms. A medical issue such as thyroid disorders, sleep apnea or other issues might be causing your child's fatigue or difficulty in concentrating. It is also important to mention any issues with substance abuse to your doctor, because heavy usage of illegal, prescription or over the counter drugs could affect your child's ability of concentrating.
Many medical professionals recommend that children be treated for ADHD to enhance their school performance and make it possible for them to develop into happy, healthy adults. Parents aren't rushing to decide whether or not they should medicate their child for ADHD. It's an extended and complicated process. A lot of children experience side-effects, such as irritability and insomnia however, these can be cured by careful monitoring dosages and gradually increasing dosages.
go opt to seek private treatment for their child. This involves regular appointments with a specialist psychiatrist to get started on medication and track their progress. This may involve up to five appointments, and thereafter, fortnightly or monthly appointments as the child becomes used to the medication. This is a great option for many families who find NHS waiting lists extremely long and for whom private healthcare could offer more efficient access to care. A thorough report of your child's development will be provided to your GP and they will monitor the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain instances you might be referred back to the NHS to continue this process to ensure that your GP is aware of all medication that has been prescribed to your child and will conduct regular reviews and checks.