20 Myths About ADHD Medication Uk: Dispelled

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ADHD Medication - Treatment For ADHD

Treatment can help people with ADHD focus better, become less impulsive and more relaxed. It's usually a mix of therapy and medication.

Stimulants increase activity in parts of the brain that control the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is among the most commonly used medications for adults suffering from ADHD.

Stimulants

Stimulants are drugs that boost activity in parts of the brain responsible for attention and behavior. They are often prescribed in combination with cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders (CBT). The stimulants increase the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine, in your brain. This helps you focus and reduces the effects of certain impulses such as those that lead to an impulsive behavior. Adults and children tolerate stimulants very well, but there are some who may experience side effects such as jitteriness or headaches.

There are many stimulant medications that include methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and atomoxetine. The results of the biggest meta-analysis of a network to date published in the British Medical Journal in 2016, support amphetamines as first-choice medications for adults suffering from ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, a drug, is approved in the UK and has an advantage over stimulants that are short-acting because it doesn't disappear throughout the daytime. It is also only required one dose per day. Patients used to the option of taking short-acting amphetamines three or four time a day. It was a challenge for patients to remember to take, and could lead to poor adherence.

It is important to get a complete medical history to determine if a child with ADHD might have other health issues which are causing their symptoms. For example, a medical condition like sleep apnea or thyroid problems could be causing your child to be tired or having difficulty concentrating. It is also important to mention any substance abuse issues to your doctor, since the excessive use of illegal, prescription or over-the-counter medications can have an impact on your child's ability to focus.

Many medical professionals now recommend that children be treated for ADHD to enhance their school performance and allow for them to grow into healthy, happy adults. Parents should not rush to decide whether or not they should medicate their child for ADHD. It is an extensive and complex process. Many children have side effects, like insomnia, irritability and anxiety, but most times, these are able to be overcome through carefully monitored and gradual increases in dosage.

Some parents opt to pursue private treatment for their child. This involves an ongoing series of appointments with a specialist psychiatrist to get started on medication and track their progress. This could include up to five sessions, followed by monthly or fortnightly appointments as the child becomes familiar with the medication. Many families are surprised to learn that NHS waiting lists are incredibly long, and private healthcare provides a more streamlined approach to treatment. A detailed report of your child's development will be provided to your GP who will then perform the monitoring of the medication that has been prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain cases you could be asked to return to the NHS for this procedure to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of here any medications prescribed to your child and will conduct regular reviews and checks.