If you've been diagnosed with adult ADHD it can be like there are so many treatment options available. How do you decide on the most effective treatment for you?
There are two main kinds of medicines for adults with ADHD which are stimulants and non-stimulants. The stimulants increase activity in the regions of your brain that control attention and behaviour.
Stimulants
There are many medications that may be used to treat ADHD. Each medication has its own effect on the brain , so it could take some time to determine the best one for you or your child.
Stimulants (also called psychostimulants) are the first treatment option for many adults suffering from ADHD and are most commonly prescribed. These medications increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which helps patients to concentrate better on tasks and reduce symptoms of fatigue. They also reduce the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity caused by the disorder.
Amphetamine salts are the main stimulants used to treat ADHD. Methylphenidate is the most common prescribed stimulant, is available in three forms: immediate-release (either extended-release or modified release), and it can also be taken as a tablet. These medicines are typically taken daily in the morning. Additional doses are usually administered at night or in the afternoon.
Methylphenidate is a fairly safe and effective treatment for adults with ADHD. It is a slow-acting medication that means it is more likely to be absorbed into the bloodstream, and then have an impact on the brain.
Side effects of stimulants can include tremors and anxiety. It's essential to talk to your GP if you have any of these symptoms, and they can suggest ways that you can manage them.
A combination of stimulants and medications could be prescribed to your. The combination of these medicines could make them more effective, and they may have less side effects than one medicine on its own.
Your GP will be able to determine which medications are suitable for you and your family. For more in-depth guidance, your physician may recommend an expert psychiatrist or clinical psychologist.
NICE recommends that adults living in the UK use lisdexamfetamine for ADHD. It is an extremely effective and well-tolerated drug that is available at a low cost in the UK.
This is confirmed by a recent meta-analysis of networks. The review was the most comprehensive of its kind to date and proves that this drug is more effective than other treatments for adults with ADHD like methylphenidate or the risperidone.
Other methods that may be helpful for some adults with ADHD include CBT and coaching which is an unregulated field that assists people in developing strategies and techniques for time management organization and planning. Cognitive behavioural therapy is a talking therapy that can change how you think and behave.
These methods can be an excellent way for your child or yourself to improve their self-esteem and behaviour however, they will not cure ADHD. A therapist can help you or your child to change your thoughts and emotions to avoid problems from arising.
There are also self-help websites that are beneficial for people with ADHD. These include books, booklets videos, and other online resources.
Getting medications for adhd of ADHD isn't easy but it can assist you or your child lead a happier and healthier life. It can also assist you avoid bullying since the condition causes individuals to be socially inept.
