Adult ADHD Medication
While ADHD medication can help manage symptoms, it's not a cure. Psychological interventions, especially in the most deprived areas are highly recommended.
NHS prescriptions for CNS stimulants, as well as ADHD drugs quadrupled in the Covid pandemic compared to previous years. However, variations in prescribing and referrals are evident based on region.
What is ADHD?
People who live with untreated ADHD are often faced with the fact that they are unable to manage various daily tasks and can create problems in many aspects of their lives. They may experience difficulties at work, in their relationships and with their self-esteem. They could also be at risk of developing a number of comorbid disorders, like anxiety, depression or addiction to drugs.
To be diagnosed with ADHD an individual must show at least five of the following symptoms:
The Primarily Inattentive Symptoms of ADHD include:
Trouble focusing on schoolwork or at work. Making a few mistakes at work or in homework assignments. Finding it difficult to finish tasks or becoming bored with them quickly. Finding it difficult to remember important dates, phone numbers or other important information. Trouble with household chores like chores, or responsibilities around the house. Trouble keeping track of time, or missing appointments and meetings. Finding it difficult to sit for long periods of time. Finding it difficult to pay attention to others when speaking to them or seeming to ignore them.
People suffering from ADHD who exhibit primary hyperactive symptoms will exhibit some of the following signs and symptoms:
Some people with ADHD hide their ADHD by developing strategies to conceal the signs. They may not be able to discuss their symptoms with friends or family, and they may not seek help until their problems are severe enough to impact their daily life.
Having ADHD can be difficult to cope with in the early years, but it may not cause difficulties until adulthood when new demands and pressures come into play. Teachers and parents might not be aware of the signs or misdiagnose them as mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse disorder.
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD A health professional will assess the person by conducting clinical interviews and using behavioral scales, and take into account family history, current medical conditions and other causes that could be a factor in a person's challenges. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence will then apply the criteria to determine an assessment.
Adults with ADHD are usually treated with medication. The most frequently prescribed medications comprise stimulants. They increase the levels in the brain of certain neurotransmitters and improve concentration, impulsivity and hyperactivity, while decreasing hyperactivity. The medications can be consumed either by mouth or via injection. A psychiatrist will track and adjust the dosage to find the right level for each individual.
Other non-medication treatments for adults suffering from ADHD include support groups and behavioural therapy, as well as lifestyle changes. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, or sugar in the hours leading up to bedtime can reduce the symptoms. For some adults, hiring a job coach is useful for helping them manage their symptoms at work. Moreover, the Department for Work and Pensions has a scheme called Access to Work which can provide financial and practical support to assist with workplace adjustments.
Stimulant drugs
Stimulant drugs are the most commonly used type of medication used to treat ADHD. These drugs are made to alter the levels of neurotransmitters which affect hyperactivity and attention in the brain. They are fast-acting and can begin working within 45-60 minutes.
These drugs are the preferred first choice for people diagnosed with ADHD in adults. They are generally well tolerated, relatively safe and have been shown reduce the severity of a number of symptoms, including inattention and hyperactivity. They are not a cure and should only be utilized in combination with psychoeducation, therapy, and ongoing support.
It is worth noting that these medications do have negative side effects. These include loss of appetite, sleeplessness and insomnia and a decrease in blood pressure and heartbeat. These medications may also increase the risk for seizures in teenagers and children. These medications can also cause sudden death in those suffering from heart conditions that are underlying, such as conduction disorder and cardiomyopathy.
Stimulants and non-stimulants are both approved medications to treat adult ADHD. Stimulants speed up the body and have been shown to be beneficial in treating the primary symptoms of ADHD. Three stimulant drugs are approved in the UK and include Methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin, Concerta) and two amphetamine-based classes dexamfetamine (e.g. Adderall, Dexedrine) and lisdexamfetamine (e.g. Elvanse, Vyvanse). medication for adhd and anxiety is a "prodrug' that has a protein attached that the body eliminates to release dexamfetamine.
Non-stimulants, such as atomoxetine and guanfa are less frequently used but they can be extremely effective. These work by strengthening the chemical signal between nerves that rely on the neurotransmitters noradrenaline, and dopamine to send messages. They can take longer to work than stimulants but can be very helpful in people with the comorbidity of ADHD and anxiety or depression.
It is essential to get an official diagnosis from a psychiatrist with experience in neurodevelopmental disorders. Before starting any new medication, this must be done. It is also a good idea to have a doctor who will support the medication by making regular appointments. These are especially crucial when you are considering starting a new medications as a GP will be able to identify potential issues that may arise at the beginning of treatment.
Doctors are also able to detect and report symptoms of ADHD. These symptoms can be used to determine if further investigation is needed and which treatments are most appropriate.
It is crucial for those with undiagnosed ADHD to be aware that a diagnosis can have a serious effect on a person’s life, career, and relationships. People who aren't diagnosed and untreated can develop far-reaching, long-lasting negative consequences that can be difficult to reverse. If you or your child thinks they might have ADHD It is crucial to consult your GP immediately.