The 3 Biggest Disasters In ADHD Medication Uk History

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ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD

Treatment can help those with ADHD concentrate better, be less impulsive and feel calmer. It is usually a combination of medication and therapy.

Stimulants boost activity in the parts of the brain that control the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is one of the most commonly used medications for adults with ADHD.

Stimulants

Stimulants are medications that increase activity in parts of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. They are typically prescribed as part of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). They work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, namely norepinephrine and dopamine, in your brain. This improves your focus and reduces the effects of certain impulses, such as those that trigger impulse-driven behavior. Stimulants are generally well tolerated by adults and children, however some people might experience side effects, such as jitteriness, headaches or an increased heart rate.

There are a variety of different stimulant drugs available, including methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dextroamphetamine (Dexamphetamine), Atomoxetine (Strattera) and modafinil (Provigil). The results of the biggest network meta-analysis to date, published in the British Medical Journal in 2016 recommend amphetamines for people with ADHD. The drug lisdexamfetamine, now also approved for use in the UK, has an advantage over amphetamines with shorter durations of action because it is less likely to wear off throughout the day and only requires one dose daily. Previously, patients would have needed to take short-acting stimulants three or four times per day, but this can be a challenge for patients who forget to take their medication and can cause poor adherence.

It is important to get a complete medical history to determine if someone with ADHD might have other medical conditions which are causing their symptoms. A medical condition such as thyroid disorders, sleep apnea or other issues could be causing your child's fatigue or difficulties in concentrating. It is also important to mention any issues with substance abuse to your doctor, as heavy usage of illegal, prescription or over-the-counter drugs can affect your child's ability of concentrating.

Medical professionals advise that children be medicated for ADHD in order to improve their school performance and to assist them in developing into happy, healthy adulthood. Parents are not rushing to decide whether or not to treat their child for ADHD. It can be an extensive and complex process. Many children will experience side effects like irritability or insomnia however, these can be overcome by carefully monitoring and gradually increasing dosages.

Some parents opt to seek out private treatment for their child, which involves a series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist in order to start the medication and track progress. This could more info involve up to five sessions, followed by fortnightly or month-to-month appointments as the child gets 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 healthcare. A thorough report of your child's development will be provided to your GP, who can then perform the monitoring of the medication prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain cases, you may return to the NHS for this to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of all medications that have been prescribed to your child. They will conduct regular checks and reviews.