Medication For Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD medication can help to manage the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It can also make it easier for people suffering from ADHD to live normal lives.
There are a number of different types of medication available to treat ADHD in the UK. These include antidepressants, stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most prescribed treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They have the longest track record and most research to back them. They improve concentration and focus decrease impulsiveness, and improve mood.
In adhd medication may be used with other treatments like behaviour therapy. It can be difficult to determine the perfect combination. However, it's worth trying different combinations over time.
The most widely used drug in ADHD treatment is methylphenidate. It is taken orally in tablets that are immediate-release or modified-release capsules. It can be titrated or increased, in time to achieve the maximum effect and be sure that there are no adverse side effects.
Lisdexamfetamine, also known as Elvanse is a different amphetamine-based medication that is licensed to be used by adults and children who are over 5. It raises levels of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for motivation, pleasure and a feeling that you are well-being. To treat other symptoms, such as insomnia or irritability, it can be combined with an stimulant drug.
Guanfacine is another drug that can be used to treat some people suffering from ADHD but it doesn't work as well as a stimulant, and is only suggested when other treatments haven't worked. It works by activating the receptors in the brain that is known as adrenoreceptors. This may help reduce some adverse effects of other medicines and can also lower blood pressure.
Atomoxetine is an anti-stimulant drug that can be given to those who aren't responsive to either lisdexamfetamine or the methylphenidate. It is a specific noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, meaning it increases the amount of a chemical in the brain that passes messages between nerves. It also helps control the flow of impulses and attention.
It is generally prescribed to children who are over 5 years old as it can cause severe side-effects in some younger children especially in those who have an underlying heart or liver disease. The doctor is often able to monitor the dosage and adjust the dosage.
Antidepressants are also sometimes used as a treatment for ADHD particularly in teenagers and children who are not responsive to stimulants. They can reduce the severity of the symptoms and could also help in preventing other conditions, such as an anxiety disorder that could develop.
A range of antidepressants are available, including bupropion, clonidine and Venlafaxine. They all allow you to send messages between brain nerves via dopamine or noradrenaline. They are frequently prescribed off-label and you should consult your physician prior to using them.
Strattera is another antidepressant. It has been proven effective in reduction of ADHD symptoms. However, it is a different mechanism than stimulants. It is also an SNRI and can be used to treat other emotional and behavioural issues.
The dosage of Strattera will need to be titrated regularly over the first few weeks or months to avoid any side-effects. A rebound effect may occur when the dose is too low. The symptoms will recur as the medication wears off.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines belong to a class of psychoactive drugs that are used to treat those who have an overactive dopamine system within their brain. They can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms and can improve mood. Some side effects may occur, but they are unlikely in the long run to cause serious problems.
They can have a variety of effects on your physical and mental health, such as lower blood pressure, enhancing sleep and decreasing anxiety. You should be careful to follow all directions.
Do not ever take amphetamines unless you have a doctor's approval. They can cause serious adverse effects when taken without prescription, such as rapid heart rate and elevated blood pressure and they may increase the chance of a drug addiction later in life.
If you're taking other medications, your doctor should discuss these with you. These include antidepressants, anxiolytics (medication to treat anxiety), and other psychotropic medications. They can also discuss exercises and nutritional advice.
A new study suggests that those with ADHD may have a higher likelihood of developing other psychiatric conditions, such depression and anxiety, due to their condition. It was discovered that 25% of ADHD patients had been diagnosed with a different psychiatric disorder during their follow-up. This was more prevalent for girls than males.
Researchers examined 9290 ADHD patients aged between 10 and 20 years in 2005. More than a quarter were prescribed an ADHD medication, and over three-quarters had a second mental illness diagnosis at least once during the follow-up period with antidepressants being among the most commonly prescribed category.
They discovered that the most commonly prescribed drugs for adults were methylphenidate as well as Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). Lisdexamfetamine was more likely to be used as a first-line treatment over other drugs, such as atomoxetine or bupropion.
Methylphenidate is a stimulant and has been approved in the UK for treating ADHD. It acts by releasing dopamine in the brain, which assists to improve behavior and reduce impulsivity. It can also increase concentration and reduce the stress.
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It also releases dopamine which boosts noradrenaline levels your brain. It is a good option to use in conjunction with stimulants in order to minimize adverse effects.
Amphetamines are a powerful and safe treatment for ADHD for the majority of people. However, some individuals don't like them or are allergic to them. Amphetamines can cause serious side effects, such as anxiety and high blood pressure.
These medications are often used in conjunction with talk therapy which can be very helpful in managing your symptoms. Some people with ADHD may prefer to try talk therapy prior to taking medication. This is because it doesn't change the negative behaviour or coping mechanisms you have developed to cope with your condition, but it could help you manage some of the more severe symptoms.
It is important to check out a wide range of sources when you are looking for information about ADHD medication. This includes different websites, individuals suffering from ADHD and your physician. The most important thing to do is learn about what other people with ADHD have had to endure. This will aid you in deciding whether or not to seek treatment.