iampsychiatry.uk - Treatment For ADHD
Treatment can help people with ADHD focus better, be less impulsive and more relaxed. It is usually a combination of medication and therapy.
Stimulants stimulate the areas of the brain that control the behavior and attention. Methylphenidate (known as Ritalin) is among the most frequently prescribed medications for adults with ADHD.
Stimulants
Stimulants are medicines that boost brain activity in areas that control behavior and attention. They are often prescribed with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Stimulants work by increasing the levels of two chemical messengers, norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. This improves your focus and reduces the effects of certain impulses like those that can trigger impulse-driven behavior. Adults and children tolerate stimulants well, however there are some who may experience side effects like jitteriness or headaches.
There are a variety of stimulant drugs including methylphenidate(Ritalin), dextroamphetamine(Dexamphetamine), modafinil(Provigil), and Atomoxetine. The results from the largest meta-analysis of a network to date published in the British Medical Journal in 2016, support amphetamines as first-choice drugs for adults with ADHD. Lisdexamfetamine, a drug that is licensed for use in the UK has a distinct advantage over shorter-acting amphetamines because it is less likely to be absorbed throughout the day and requires only one dose daily. Patients had 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 crucial to take an accurate medical history in order to determine if someone with ADHD might have other medical conditions that contribute to their symptoms. For instance, a medical condition such as sleep apnea or thyroid problems could be causing your child to feel exhausted or have difficulty concentrating. You should also mention any substance abuse problems to your doctor. The use of prescription, over-the-counter or illegal drugs can impact your child's ability to concentrate.
Medical professionals advise that children receive medication for ADHD in order to improve their performance at school and help them grow into a healthy, happy adulthood. However the decision to treat a child for ADHD is not made lightly by parents and can be a long and difficult procedure. Many children have side effects, such as irritability, insomnia and anxiety, but most times, these are able to be overcome through carefully monitored and gradual increases in dosage.
Some parents decide to seek out private treatment for their child, which involves regular appointments with a specialist psychiatrist to begin the medication process and track progress. It could take up to five appointments and then fortnightly or monthly appointments when the child is accustomed to the medication. This is a great option for many families who are finding the NHS waiting lists very long, and those who have private healthcare that can offer more efficient access to care. A detailed report on your child's development will be provided to your GP, who can then perform the monitoring of the medication that has been prescribed by your psychiatrist. In certain instances, you may return to the NHS for this to continue to ensure that your GP is aware of all medications prescribed to your child and will conduct regular reviews and checks.