Adult ADHD Medication
ADHD medication is a method to help manage symptoms but it's not an answer to. Psychological interventions, particularly in the most deprived areas, are recommended.
NHS prescriptions for CNS stimulants, as well as ADHD medications quadrupled during the Covid pandemic compared to previous years. There are regional differences in the prescription of medications and referrals.
What is ADHD?
People with untreated ADHD are often faced with the fact that they have difficulty managing the demands of daily life and this can lead to problems in many aspects of their lives. They may have difficulty at work or in their relationships, and could have trouble with self-esteem or a sense of well-being. They may also be at risk of developing a number of comorbid conditions, like anxiety, depression or abuse of substances.
To be diagnosed with ADHD an individual must display at least five signs from the following three categories:
The most prominent symptoms of ADHD that are characterized by inattentiveness include:
It is difficult to focus attention at school or at work. Making careless mistakes at work or in homework assignments. You might find it difficult to complete tasks or become bored quickly. You may be having trouble remembering important details, like dates or phone numbers. Trouble with household chores like chores, or household chores. You might have difficulty keeping track of your time or you may miss appointments or meetings. Having trouble sitting still for long periods of time. When speaking to others, it is difficult to pay attention or appear to ignore them.
People suffering from ADHD who suffer from the primary hyperactive symptoms will display some of the following signs and symptoms:
Hyperactivity and an impulsive nature can make it difficult to get organized and complete everyday tasks, which is why some people suffering from ADHD develop strategies to hide their challenges. They may not be able to discuss their problems with family members or acquaintances, and may not seek help until their problems become so severe that they affect their quality of life.
ADHD can be a challenge for children to manage however, it may not become a problem until adulthood as new demands and stressors come into play. Symptoms might be missed by parents and teachers, or they could be misdiagnosed with mental health conditions like depression, anxiety or substance use disorder.
To be diagnosed with ADHD, a healthcare professional will evaluate the patient through a series of interviews and behavioral scales. They will also consider family history, current medical problems and other possible causes of the individual's problems. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence will then use the criteria to determine an assessment.
Adults with ADHD are often treated with medication. Most commonly prescribed medications include stimulants. They boost the levels in the brain of specific neurotransmitters, and improve the quality of attention span, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, while decreasing hyperactivity. The medications can be consumed through injection or mouth. A psychiatrist will monitor and alter the dosage to find the ideal dosage for each individual.
Support groups, behavioral therapy, and lifestyle modifications are some of the other non-medicated treatment options for adults suffering from ADHD. Healthy eating, regular exercise and avoiding drinking, caffeine or sugar in the hours leading up to bedtime can reduce the symptoms. Some adults might find that hiring a job coach is useful for helping them manage their symptoms at work, and the Department for Work and Pensions offers 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 form of medication used to treat ADHD is stimulant drugs. These medications are designed to alter the levels of neurotransmitters that influence attention and hyperactivity in the brain. They work quickly and can be working within 45-60 minutes.
These drugs are the first choice for people diagnosed with ADHD in adults. They are fairly safe, and generally tolerated. They have been proven to decrease a number of core symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention and an impulsiveness. However, they aren't a cure, and should be considered as part of a treatment program that includes psychoeducation, therapy and ongoing support.
These medications may cause negative side effects. These can include an increase in appetite, difficulty sleeping and a reduction in blood pressure and heart rate. These medicines may also increase the risk for seizures in adolescents and children. Additionally, there is a small possibility that these medications may cause sudden death in those who suffer from a cardiovascular disorder, like cardiomyopathy or conduction disorder.
There are two types of drug that are approved for use in treating adults with ADHD including stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are substances that stimulate the body's systems and in low doses, have been proven to be beneficial to the fundamental characteristics of ADHD. In the UK three stimulant drugs have been approved; methylphenidate is one of them. Ritalin and Concerta are two amphetamine-based classes. Dexamfetamine is one class. Adderall, Dexedrine) and lisdexamfetamine (e.g. Elvanse, Vyvanse). Atomoxetine is a "prodrug' that has a protein attached that the body eliminates to release dexamfetamine.
Non-stimulants such as atomoxetine or guanfacine are less frequently used but they can be extremely effective. how does medication for adhd work work by increasing the chemical signal between nerves which depends on neurotransmitters like noradrenaline or dopamine for sending messages. They may take longer to effect than stimulants, but they can be very beneficial in those with the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety or depression.
The most important factor in selecting the right medication is to be formally diagnosed by a specialist psychiatrist who has previous experience working with neurodevelopmental conditions. This should be done prior to starting any new medication. It is also a great idea to have a doctor who will support the medication by making regular appointments. This is especially crucial when you are considering starting a new medication as a GP can look for any possible issues that could arise at the beginning of treatment.
GPs are also able to detect and report symptoms of ADHD. These symptoms can be used to decide if further investigation is needed and which treatments are most suitable.
For those who are not diagnosed with ADHD it is important to remember that a diagnosis of ADHD in adults can have a profound impact on the person's life and career as well as relationships. If you are not diagnosed and untreated can develop far-reaching, long-lasting negative effects that may be difficult to reverse. Therefore, if you think that your child or yourself may have ADHD it is essential to speak with your GP as soon as possible.