Adult ADHD Medication
While ADHD medication can help to manage symptoms, it's not a cure. Psychological interventions, particularly in the most deprived areas are highly 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 prescription of medications and referrals.
What is ADHD?
People who live with untreated ADHD will usually find that they have difficulty managing various daily tasks and this can lead to problems in many aspects of their lives. They may struggle at work or in their relationships, and they might struggle with self-esteem or a sense of well-being. They could also be at a higher chance of developing comorbid disorders like depression, substance abuse, or anxiety.
To be diagnosed with ADHD an individual must show at least five of the following symptoms:
The most prominent symptoms of ADHD include:
It is difficult to focus attention at school or at work. Making careless errors at work or with homework assignments. Having trouble finishing tasks or becoming bored with them fast. You may have difficulty remembering important information, such as dates or phone numbers. You might have trouble with household chores and other responsibilities. You may have trouble keeping track of time or you may miss appointments or meetings. Having natural adhd medication sitting still for long periods of time. Not paying attention to other people while speaking to them or appearing to be ignoring them.
People with ADHD who exhibit primary hyperactive symptoms will display some of the following signs and symptoms:
Hyperactivity and impulsivity can make it difficult to stay organized and accomplish daily tasks, so some people with ADHD have strategies to disguise their issues. They might not talk about their problems with family members or acquaintances, and they may not seek help until their issues become serious enough to impact their quality of life.
Having ADHD can be difficult to manage in the early years of childhood, but it could not cause difficulties until adulthood when new demands and stressors become a factor. Teachers and parents might not be aware of the symptoms, or misdiagnose them as a mental illness like anxiety, depression or substance abuse disorder.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD A health professional will assess the person using clinical interviews and behavioral scales. They also take into consideration family history, current medical conditions and other causes that could be a factor in the person's difficulties. They will then formulate a diagnosis based on the guidelines set by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Adults with ADHD are often treated with medications. Most commonly prescribed medications include stimulants. They increase the levels in the brain of specific neurotransmitters, and improve concentration, impulsivity and hyperactivity, while reducing hyperactivity. They can be taken orally, or by injection, and a psychiatrist will evaluate the effects of medication and adjust dosages to find the optimal balance for each individual.
Other non-medicated treatments for adults suffering from ADHD include support groups and behavioural therapy, as well as lifestyle modifications. Regular exercise, healthy eating and avoiding alcohol, caffeine or sugar in the hours before bedtime can reduce the symptoms. For some adults, an employee coach can help them manage their symptoms at work. The Department for Work and Pensions also has a program called Access to Work, which can offer financial assistance and other services to aid in workplace adaptations.
Stimulant drugs
The most well-known type of medication for ADHD is stimulant drugs. These drugs are made to change the levels of neurotransmitters that influence hyperactivity and attention in the brain. They are quick-acting and begin to work in just 45-60 minutes.
These drugs are the first choice for those diagnosed with ADHD in adults. They are generally well tolerated, relatively safe and have been proven to reduce a variety of core symptoms such as inattentiveness and hyperactivity. However, they aren't a cure, and should be considered as part of a treatment program that includes psychoeducation, therapy and ongoing support.
These medicines can cause adverse effects. These include loss of appetite, sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as the decrease in heartbeat and blood pressure. These medicines may also increase the risk for seizures in teenagers and children. These medicines can also trigger sudden death in those suffering from underlying cardiovascular conditions such as cardiomyopathy and conduction disorder.
There are two kinds of drug that are approved for use in treating adult ADHD that are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are drugs that speed up the body's systems, and in low doses, have been proven to improve the fundamental characteristics of ADHD. Three stimulant drugs have been approved in the UK including the methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin, Concerta) and two classes of amphetamine-based substances, dexamfetamine (e.g. Adderall, Dexedrine) and Lisdexamfetamine (e.g. Elvanse, Vyvanse). There is also a "prodrug" drug which has a protein molecule to it that the body snatches out to release dexamfetamine. This is atomoxetine.
Non-stimulants such as atomoxetine or guanfacine are less frequently used but are extremely effective. These drugs work by enhancing the chemical signal between nerves which relies on neurotransmitters such as noradrenaline or dopamine for sending messages. They may take longer to effect than stimulants, however they can be very beneficial for those suffering from comorbid ADHD depression, anxiety or ADHD.
It is crucial to receive a formal diagnosis by a psychiatrist with experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. This should be done before starting any new medication. It is important to consult with a GP who is willing to support the medication by scheduling regular appointments. This is particularly crucial when you're starting a new drug since a GP can examine any possible issues that might arise during the initial treatment.
Doctors are also able to identify and report symptoms of ADHD. These can then be used to help decide whether or whether further investigation is required and also help determine which treatments are suitable.
It is essential for those who have undiagnosed ADHD to know that it can have a serious effect on a person's life as well as their career and relationships. If you are not diagnosed and not treated can suffer from extensive, long-lasting negative effects that may be difficult to reverse. If you or your child thinks they might have ADHD It is crucial to talk to your GP immediately.