Adult ADHD may seem like there are a lot of treatments available. But how do you determine which is best for you?
Adults suffering from ADHD can select between two main types: stimulants or non-stimulants. Stimulants boost brain activity areas that regulate attention and behavior.
Stimulants
There are many drugs that can be used to treat ADHD. Each one has different effects on the brain and requires time to determine the best medication for your child or you.
Stimulants (also called psychostimulants) are the first treatment option for many adults with ADHD and are the most frequently prescribed. These medications boost the levels of dopamine in the brain, norepinephrine and help people concentrate better on their tasks and reduce fatigue symptoms. They also decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity that are associated with the disorder.
Amphetamine salts are the primary stimulants used to treat ADHD. Methylphenidate, which is the most common prescribed stimulant, comes 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 once daily in the morning. Additional doses are usually administered in the evening or afternoon.
Methylphenidate is a relatively safe and effective treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. It is a slow-acting drug that means it is more likely to be absorbed into the bloodstream and exert a positive effect on the brain.
Certain people have found that stimulants can cause side effects, such as tremors and anxiety. It's essential to talk to your GP when you are experiencing any of these symptoms and they can suggest ways that you can manage these symptoms.
A combination of stimulants as well as medicines could be prescribed to your. Combining these medications could make them more effective and may cause less side effects than one medication alone.
Your GP can provide the right medicines for you and your family. They may refer you to a specialised psychologist or psychiatrist for more specific advice.
In the UK, NICE recommends the use of lisdexamfetamine in the first choice of ADHD drug for adults. It is a highly effective, well-tolerated drug and is readily available in UK at a cost that is affordable.
A network meta-analysis confirms this conclusion. This was the largest study of its kind and proves that this medication is more effective for ADHD adults than other treatments like methylphenidate and risperidone.
adhd medications for adults that can be beneficial for adults suffering from ADHD include CBT and coaching, which is an unregulated sector that assists people in developing strategies and techniques for time management, organisation and planning. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that can assist you in changing your thinking and behavior.
These techniques can be a great method to help your child or yourself improve their behaviour and self-esteem, but they're not able to solve ADHD. A therapist can assist you or your child alter your thoughts and feelings in order to keep problems from occurring.
There are also some self-help resources that you can read or view online that can aid in self-care for those with ADHD. These include books, booklets videos, and other online resources.
Getting a diagnosis of ADHD isn't easy but it can help you or your child lead a more positive and healthy life. It can also help you avoid bullying, as the condition causes people to be socially inept.
