ADHD Medication in the UK
The medications for ADHD help to reduce symptoms by increasing the activity of the brain in certain areas. They also stimulate the production of neurotransmitters that are absent in people suffering from ADHD.
Stimulant medications are the most widely prescribed treatment for adults with ADHD in the UK. They work by increasing brain activity in areas involved in the regulation of impulses and attention.
Stimulants
There are two kinds of medications that are approved for use in the UK to treat adult ADHD that treat ADHD in adults: stimulants and non-stimulant drugs. Stimulants, which enhance brain activity in areas that regulate behavior and attention, are often the first option. These include methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, and lisdexamfetamine. They can be given often throughout the day in a tablet with a short-acting mechanism or taken once a day in a tablet with a long-acting mechanism that is released into the bloodstream throughout the course of a single day. The dose of the medication might need to be changed regularly in the beginning as it is monitored and adjusted (titrated) to find the dose that is most effective for you.
Stimulants have a long-standing history of use both medically and as recreational drugs. During the 1930s amphetamines were frequently used by truck drivers, students and athletes for their energy boosters. Amphetamines can be very dangerous and carry a high risk of abuse. They are used to make people feel happy and can stimulate the brain in ways that can result in addiction.
The most common side-effects of stimulants are a loss of appetite, sleep disturbances and issues with the digestive system or stomach. Adjustments to the dosage or frequency of the medication can help can alleviate these problems. They are generally tolerated by most adults. Children may experience more serious side effects, like the tics, weight gain and irritability.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications work differently than stimulants and can take a while to see them begin to work. Clonidine and guanfacine (brand names Catapres and Intuniv) are both alpha agonists which work by stimulating certain receptors in the brain to increase concentration, reduce the impulsivity and hyperactivity, and reduce behavioral issues like tics and aggression. They can be used as a supplement to ADHD stimulant medication or taken alone by children between the ages of 6-17.
Atomoxetine also referred to as Strattera is a non-stimulant medicine that enhances impulse control and concentration by increasing levels of noradrenaline in the brain. It is a medication that can be prescribed on its own, but is typically combined with guanfacine in children. These medications do not cause the same side effects as stimulants but can still cause headaches and insomnia.
Atomoxetine
Certain children aren't able to respond to stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin. For these children, medication options called nonstimulants are a possibility. They improve the signaling between nerves and the regions of the brain, which help kids concentrate more easily and manage the impulsivity. Non-stimulant ADHD medicines use different adhd medications active ingredients from stimulants and don't have the potential to be abused as they aren't controlled substances.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is one of the newest non stimulant adhd medication uk-stimulant medicines that treat ADHD in adults, children and teenagers. It is an antidepressant, and has been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount of a chemical known as noradrenaline that is present in the brain. Noradrenaline is a chemical that sends messages between brain cells. It also plays a role in motivation, impulsivity and attention.
Due to its unique mechanism of action, atomoxetine isn't able to have the same side effects as other antidepressants such as Wellbutrin and Effexor. It can be prescribed to children as young 5 years old. It is administered once or twice a day in tablet form. Atomoxetine provides stable, 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms, and could help to reduce the symptoms in the evening, as the effects of stimulants diminish.
The FDA has also approved guanfacine XR and Clonidine XR both of which are also available as non-stimulant ADHD medications. These are given to children who haven't been able to respond to stimulant medications or who are experiencing difficulties with its side effects. They can be used in conjunction with stimulants, such as Adderall XR, (amphetamines salts) to treat ADHD more effectively.
If you or your child are being treated with a non-stimulant ADHD medication, make sure you follow your GP's directions carefully. They might recommend starting with low doses, then gradually increasing the dosage. They'll also want be aware of any other medications you or your child is taking to check there aren't any interactions. You'll need to attend regular appointments and let your GP be aware of any concerns or reactions from the medication. They can change your dosage, or suggest alternative treatments like talking therapy.
Unlicensed Medication
The medication used to treat ADHD in adults includes a variety of stimulant and non-stimulant drugs. The psychiatric physician may prescribe medications which are 'off-label' for the condition (these are drugs that are licensed for other conditions, but are showing evidence of effectiveness in adults with ADHD). These medications are typically antidepressants, such as bupropion and venflaxine. They have been proven to have some positive effects in the condition and are well tolerated at lower doses than the ones found in licensed treatments.
Sometimes, unlicensed medications are prescribed for a patient when there is a medical need that is unique to the patient and the prescription cannot be fulfilled with an alternative licensed medicine. Patients whose usual medication has been temporarily interrupted due to a disruption of supply, or those who require liquid versions of a licensed capsule or tablet for reasons like intolerance or allergies can be affected in a variety of ways.
Unlicensed medications are usually referred to as'specials', however, this can also apply to medicines which are 'off-label', or that are prepared or supplied in a way that is not covered under the medicine's licence. For instance, some examples include crushing tablets to make them easier for patients to swallow. Others may include adding liquid adhd medication to tablets or capsules that are licensed to make a mixture that is administered via injection.
In general, healthcare professionals will only use unlicensed medication as a last resort when they feel that there is no licensed alternative available. They will carefully consider a variety of options to meet the specific needs of each patient. They will also periodically review treatment and results, taking into account both clinical experience and new licensed treatments.
It is important that any medicine not licensed to treat patients is safe and effective, and the reason for prescribing it should be recorded in the patient's medical record. Report any side effects that a patient might experience from an off-label drug using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. This information will be used by the MHRA to amend the marketing authorization of the medicine and ensure future prescriptions are safe and effective.
Talk Therapy
A therapist who works with you to assist you understand your symptoms and find ways to manage. They will also provide guidance and advice on how to change your ways of thinking and acting to feel more positive. It is essential to complete the recommended number of sessions in order to help you feel better.
Medications help to reduce the symptoms of adhd medication names list by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters in your brain. These are chemicals that allow your brain to transmit messages to help you focus your mind and avoid distractions. There are two kinds of medications used to treat ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants. All of them improve the amount of neurotransmitters in your brain.
In the UK there are a variety of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. The most commonly used is methylphenidate. It is available in both immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times per day) and modified-release tablets (taken daily but released throughout the day). These medicines are not the cure for ADHD however they can help to focus and control an impulsive behavior. They are usually well-tolerated however your physician will closely monitor you to ensure you receive the correct dose and do not experience any adverse negative effects. It may take several weeks before the medication reaches its ideal level. You may also have to adjust your dosage (change your dosage on a regular basis) to find out the best dosage.
Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine, that is available by prescription only, may be more efficient than stimulants, and are not as prone to the possibility of addiction. They have a more solid evidence base but they are not as well-liked and some experience problems with their appetite, memory, or sleep. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress and determine whether or not you should keep taking Atomoxetine or switch to another treatment.
People suffering from ADHD can't find permanent solutions with therapy or medication. They can help you cope with your symptoms, and live a fulfilling lifestyle. You will make the most of your treatment by combining treatments with regular sessions with your therapist as this will give you the chance to develop ways to cope and identify problematic patterns in your behaviour and thinking. Some people's improved moods and self-confidence may last for a long time after treatment.