Adult ADHD Medication
While ADHD medication can help manage symptoms, it isn't an effective cure. Psychological interventions, especially in the areas that are most vulnerable, are recommended.
NHS prescriptions for CNS stimulants and medications for ADHD increased during the Covid pandemic, which quadrupled compared with previous years. There are regional differences in the prescribing of drugs and referrals.
What is ADHD?
Untreated ADHD can cause issues in a variety of areas of a person's life. They may face difficulties at work in their relationships, as well as 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 an individual must have at least five of the three categories below:
The most obvious symptoms of ADHD include:
Inability to concentrate on school or work. Making mistakes in work or with homework assignments. Finding it difficult to finish tasks or becoming bored with them fast. You may have difficulty remembering important details, like dates or numbers. You might be having difficulty with household chores and other responsibilities. Having trouble keeping the time, or missing appointments and meetings. Finding it difficult to sit for long periods of time. When talking to others it can be difficult to pay close attention or to appear to be ignoring them.
People with ADHD who exhibit primary hyperactive symptoms will exhibit some of the following symptoms and signs:
Hyperactivity and an impulsive nature can make it difficult to be organized and complete everyday tasks, and so people with ADHD have strategies to disguise their challenges. non stimulant adhd medication might not discuss their symptoms with family or friends and they might not seek help until the issues are so severe that they affect their quality of living.
ADHD is a difficult issue for children to deal with, but may not become an issue until the age of adulthood when new demands and stressors come into play. Teachers and parents may miss the symptoms, or misdiagnose them as mental illnesses like anxiety, depression or substance abuse disorder.
A healthcare professional will utilize the use of behavioral and clinical interviews to determine the person's condition and determine if they are suffering from ADHD. They will also consider family history as well as medical conditions and other possible causes. They will then make diagnosis based on guidelines set by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Medication is often used to treat adults suffering from ADHD. The most frequently prescribed medications are stimulants that increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters within the brain and improve attention span and impulsivity, while decreasing hyperactivity. The medications can be taken through injection or mouth. A psychiatrist will monitor and adjust the dosage to find the right dosage for each individual.
Other non-medication treatments for adults with ADHD include support groups as well as behavioural therapy and lifestyle modifications. Healthy eating, regular exercise and avoiding drinking, caffeine or sugar in the hours before bedtime can reduce the symptoms. Some adults might find that an employment coach could be useful for helping them manage their symptoms at work. Moreover, the Department for Work and Pensions offers a program called Access to Work which can provide financial and practical support to assist with workplace adjustments.
Stimulant drugs
The most well-known type of medication for ADHD is stimulant drugs. These drugs are designed to alter the levels of neurotransmitters that affect attention and hyperactivity in the brain. They are quick-acting and can begin to work within 45-60 minute.
These drugs are the first choice for those diagnosed with ADHD in adults. They are generally well tolerated, relatively safe and have been shown reduce a number core symptoms, including inattention and hyperactivity. They are not a cure and should only be used in conjunction with psychoeducation, therapy and ongoing support.
It is worth noting that these medications do have side effects. They can cause an increase in appetite, difficulty sleeping and a reduction in blood pressure and heart rate. They can also increase the risk of having seizures in adolescents and children. In addition there is a tiny possibility that these medications may cause sudden death in those with a underlying cardiovascular condition such as conduction disorder.
There are two kinds of drugs that have been approved to treat adult ADHD; stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the body's systems, and at low doses have been found to be beneficial to the core traits of ADHD. Three stimulant drugs are approved in the UK and include the methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin and Concerta ) are two amphetamine-based classes. Dexamfetamine is a class. Adderall, Dexedrine) and Lisdexamfetamine (e.g. Elvanse, Vyvanse). There is also one "prodrug" drug which has a protein molecule attached to it that the body snatches out to release dexamfetamine; atomoxetine.
Non-stimulants like guanfacine or atomoxetine are not as commonly used, but they can be extremely effective. They help by enhancing the chemical signal between nerves, which depend on neurotransmitters noradrenaline as well as dopamine to transmit messages. They may take longer to work than stimulants, but they can be extremely beneficial for those with co-occurring ADHD and anxiety or depression.
It is essential to get a formal diagnosis by a psychiatrist with experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. Before beginning any new medication, this must be completed. It is important to consult with a GP who will be willing to assist with the medication through regular visits. These are especially important when starting a new medications as a GP can check for possible issues that could arise with the initial start up of treatment.
GPs can also identify and report symptoms of ADHD. These symptoms can be used to determine whether further investigation is required and what treatments are the most appropriate.
It is crucial for those with undiagnosed ADHD to be aware that it could have a profound impact on a person's life and career as well as relationships. If untreated and not diagnosed, people could suffer from long-lasting, negative effects. These effects may be difficult to reverse. Therefore, if you think you or your child might have ADHD it is vital that you talk to your GP as soon as you can.