Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types of licensed ADHD medication in the UK that contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL, Equasym XL) or dexamfetamine (eg Elvanse).
Stimulants work by increasing activity in the brain, specifically areas that play a part in controlling attention and behavior. They also help reduce the amount of impulsivity. Other ADHD medications include atomoxetine bupropion, as well as antidepressants like bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that can cause issues with attention to impulse control, attention span, and sometimes hyperactivity. It affects children as well as adults and can create problems in school, work and in relationships.
The precise causes of ADHD aren't clear However, the disorder appears to be linked to specific chemical changes in the brain that cause the symptoms. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters, and include dopamine as well as norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters are the most effective targets for drugs which reduce ADHD symptoms. They can be the combination of stimulants, non-stimulants, or a single medication.
Most often, medication is utilized in conjunction with behavioral therapy. This can help you learn new skills and change your behavior. It's also important to get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet.
Exercise can reduce certain symptoms of ADHD because it increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This can make a person who suffers from ADHD feel less restless and more focused.
Other ways to aid in the treatment of ADHD include avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks, sleeping enough, exercising and ensuring good mental health. It's also helpful to keep positive attitudes and adhere to a routine.
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD, it's important to keep in mind your symptoms and communicate them to your doctor. Your doctor will monitor your progress and make any necessary modifications to the treatment plan.
Combining therapy with medication or skill training is the most effective way to treat ADHD. A multimodal approach can be more effective than medications alone, but it may take some time to figure out the appropriate combination for your needs.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. At first they are typically taken in small doses every day. Some people are more responsive to long-acting or extended release formulations that build slowly in the bloodstream and wear off slowly. They also reduce the effect of rebound that occurs when the drug wears off and the symptoms return.
In addition to stimulants, doctors may also prescribe other types of medications that work in the brain to improve focus and attention. These medications are called non-stimulants. They require more time to begin working than stimulants, but they can be more effective in certain individuals with ADHD.
It's important to talk to your doctor about the side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child taking. These adverse effects can cause anxiety and depression. Changing the dose can sometimes reduce these problems.
Other side effects that are common may be mild effects, like irritability, or difficulty concentrating. Keep a log of the effects of your medication and notify your doctor. This information can be shared with your family members as well as anyone else who may be able assist you.
It isn't easy to concentrate on tasks when you have difficulty in focusing. You might be unable to finish your homework or miss social gatherings or meetings you were required to attend.
Stimulants
Stimulant drugs have the longest history of treating ADHD and are the most frequently prescribed medication for the treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD). They function by increasing levels of dopamine in your brain. This results in an increase in focus, concentration and motivation.
These medications also help reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity, and aggression. The most well-known stimulant drugs are methylphenidate, adderall, or dexedrine.
They can be taken as pills, capsules or tablets. They are typically taken in the morning, and are released into the bloodstream over some time.
There are two kinds of stimulants: long-acting and short-acting. Both are available in generic formulations and are a secure, effective treatment for ADHD.
Many adults and children like the more powerful stimulants. However they can be costly and can have a long-lasting adverse side effect. If you opt for this kind be sure to adhere to the prescriptions of your doctor and take only one dose per day.
Children and adults who use stimulants are at a higher risk of developing heart disease. They should be checked regularly for changes in their heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor can alter the dosage or even stop the medication when there is a concern.
Stimulant medications can cause a number of adverse reactions however, the majority of them are mild and disappear over time. While nausea and vomiting are common adverse effects of stimulant drugs however, they are extremely rare. Some suffer a slight increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
The effects of these side effects typically last for about an hour and can be controlled by adjusting the medication's dose or schedule. Certain medicines can cause minimal or no side effects at all, but others can cause severe side effects that require hospitalization.
Your doctor will take into consideration the weight of your child and their age when prescribing medication to your child. Your doctor will adjust the dosage of the medication that your child is prescribed to ensure that you get the best results.
Certain of the side effects can be serious, for instance, seizures or low blood pressure. It is imperative to contact your doctor if there are any of the symptoms.
Other side effects that may be experienced are less serious like sleeping problems or irritability and an increase in appetite. Tics, which may be rapid, repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking and throat clearing can also be caused by certain medications.
Tics are common among children with ADHD and can make it difficult to concentrate. Tics can be an incredibly frustrating and frightening experience for parents, which is why it's essential to be aware of these.
If Iam Psychiatry suspect that your child is developing a tic, speak with your doctor. He may suggest you consider a treatment which doesn't have the potential for this type of side effect.
The first drugs that are prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are methylphenidate (Elvanse), and lisdexamfetamine, (Elvanse). To get the best outcomes, the medication should be taken slowly and the dosage must be adjusted frequently.
Other medications are also available to treat ADHD including antidepressants or high blood pressure medications. These medications work by acting on the brain's levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. They are a viable option if stimulant medication doesn't perform or cause excessive side effects.