Adult ADHD Medication
While ADHD medication can help to manage symptoms, it isn't a cure. Psychological interventions are suggested, particularly in the most depressed areas.
NHS prescriptions for CNS stimulants and ADHD drugs quadrupled in the Covid pandemic in comparison to previous years. There are regional differences in the prescription of medications and referrals.
What is ADHD?
Untreated ADHD can cause issues throughout an individual's life. They may have problems at work as well as in their relationships and with their self-esteem. They may also be at risk of chance of developing comorbid disorders like depression, substance abuse or anxiety.
To be diagnosed with ADHD the person must display at least five symptoms from the three categories listed below:
The primary symptoms of ADHD that are characterized by inattention comprise:
Trouble focusing on schoolwork or at work. Making careless mistakes at work or in homework assignments. Finding it difficult to finish tasks or becoming bored with them quickly. Trouble remembering important dates, phone numbers or other details. Finding it difficult to complete household chores like chores, or household chores. You may have trouble keeping track of time or miss appointments and meetings. You are unable to sit still for a long time. Having difficulty paying close attention to other people when speaking with them, or appearing to be ignoring them.
People with ADHD who exhibit primary hyperactive symptoms will exhibit some of the following symptoms and signs:
Many people with ADHD are able to hide their ADHD by devising strategies to conceal the signs. They might not talk about their problems with family members or acquaintances, and may not seek help until their challenges get serious enough to affect their lives.
Having ADHD can be difficult to manage during childhood, but it might not cause issues until the age of adulthood when new demands and stressors come into play. Teachers and parents might not be aware of the symptoms, or misdiagnose them as a mental illness such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse disorder.
A health professional will employ the use of behavioral and clinical interviews to assess a person and determine if they suffer from ADHD. They will also take into account the history of the family as well as medical conditions and other possible causes. They will then come up with a diagnosis based on the guidelines set by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Adults suffering from ADHD are often treated with medication. Most commonly prescribed medications include stimulants. They boost the levels in the brain of certain neurotransmitters and improve the quality of attention span, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, as well as reducing hyperactivity. They can be consumed orally or via injection, and a psychiatrist will monitor the effects of medications and adjust dosages to determine the most effective balance for each person.
Other non-medicated treatments for adults with ADHD include support groups, behavioural therapy and lifestyle changes. A healthy diet, regular exercise and routines and avoiding sugar, caffeine or alcohol during the hours prior to bed can reduce the symptoms. Some adults might find that hiring a job coach is helpful in managing their symptoms at work. Moreover, the Department for Work and Pensions has a program called Access to Work which can offer financial and practical assistance to help with adjustments to the workplace.
Stimulant drugs
The most well-known kind of medication for ADHD is stimulant drugs. These drugs are made to change the levels of neurotransmitters that influence hyperactivity and attention in the brain. They are fast acting and can be working within 45-60 minute.
These drugs are the first choice of people diagnosed with ADHD. They are generally well-tolerated and relatively safe. They have been proven to reduce a variety of core symptoms like inattention and hyperactivity. However, they aren't an effective treatment and should only be used as part of a treatment plan that includes psychoeducation, therapy and ongoing support.
These medications can have negative side effects. These include a loss of appetite, sleeplessness and insomnia and the decrease in heartbeat and blood pressure. They may also increase the risk of having seizures in children and adolescents. These medications can also cause sudden death in those suffering from chronic cardiovascular diseases like cardiomyopathy and conduction disorder.
There are two types of drugs that are approved for use in treating adults with ADHD that are stimulants and non-stimulants. The stimulants boost the body and have been shown to be beneficial in treating the primary symptoms of ADHD. In the UK three stimulant medications have been approved. Methylphenidate is one of them. Ritalin, Concerta) and two classes of amphetamine-based substances dexamfetamine (e.g. Adderall, Dexedrine) and lisdexamfetamine (e.g. Elvanse, Vyvanse). There is a third "prodrug" drug which has a protein molecule attached that the body removes to release dexamfetamine. It is called Atomoxetine.
Non-stimulants, such as atomoxetine and guanfa are not as commonly used, but can be very efficient. They work by increasing the chemical signal between nerves that relies on neurotransmitters like noradrenaline or dopamine for sending messages. They can take longer to effect than stimulants, but they can be extremely beneficial for those with the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety or depression.
It is crucial to receive a formal diagnosis by an experienced psychiatrist who has expertise in neurodevelopmental disorders. This should be done prior to beginning any new medication. It is also a good idea to consult an experienced doctor who can help you with the medication by scheduling regular appointments. This is particularly crucial when you are starting a new medication since a GP can look for any issues that may occur during the initial treatment.
GPs can also be helpful in identifying and reporting symptoms of ADHD. These can then be used to help decide whether or not further investigation is necessary and also help determine which treatments are the best.
It is crucial for those who have undiagnosed ADHD to know that the diagnosis could have a profound impact on a person’s life as well as their career and relationships. If you are not diagnosed and untreated may suffer extensive negative, long-lasting effects that may be difficult to reverse. If adhd treatment medication or your child suspects they may have ADHD it is essential to speak with your GP immediately.