Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types of licensed ADHD medication in the UK - those that contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL, Equasym XL) or dexamfetamine (eg Elvanse).
Stimulants increase the activity in the brain, specifically areas that are involved in controlling attention and behavior. They also help reduce impulsivity. Other ADHD treatments include atomoxetine bupropion, and antidepressants such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that leads to problems with attention, impulse control and sometimes hyperactivity. It affects children as well as adults and can create problems in school, work and relationships.
The precise causes of ADHD aren't clear but the disorder is believed to be linked to specific chemical changes in the brain that cause the symptoms. These chemicals are referred to as neurotransmitters. They include dopamine and norepinephrine.
Medications that reduce ADHD symptoms have the highest effectiveness at targeting these neurotransmitters. These drugs can be an amalgamation of stimulants and non-stimulants or they may be a single medication.
Most often, medication is used in conjunction with behavior therapy. This can help you master new skills and alter your habits. It's also important to get plenty of sleep and eat a nutritious diet.
Exercise can help reduce certain symptoms of ADHD as it increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This can help someone who suffers from ADHD feel less anxious and more focused.
You can also reduce ADHD symptoms by avoiding caffeinated and sugary drinks, sleeping enough and exercising, and ensuring good mental health. It is important to keep an optimistic outlook and adhere to a routine.
It is crucial to be aware and report ADHD symptoms to your doctor If you or your child has them. Your doctor will keep track of your progress and make any necessary modifications to the treatment plan.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is the combination of medications, behavior therapy, and training for skills. Multimodal approaches can be more effective than just medications however it could take some time to determine the best combination for you.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. At first, they are usually taken in small doses every day. Extended-release or long-acting formulations that are slowly absorbed into the bloodstream and wear down slowly could be more effective for certain people. They reduce the rebound effect, which is when the drug is worn off and symptoms come back.
iampsychiatry.uk might prescribe stimulants in addition to other medicines that help improve attention and focus. These medications are known as nonstimulants. They take longer to work as stimulants, but are more efficient for ADHD patients.
Talk to your doctor about potential side effects from ADHD medication your child or you are taking. Some of these side effects could be severe, like anxiety or depression. These side effects can be cured by altering the dosage.
Other symptoms that are typical include irritability and trouble concentrating. Writing down your experiences in a journal can help you track your reactions and notify your doctor. The information you record can be shared with family members and anyone else who might be able to assist you.
It can be difficult to focus on tasks if you're having difficulty staying focused. You might not finish your homework or miss important social events.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is the use of stimulant drugs. They are also the most prescribed medication for attention deficit disorder (ADD). They work by increasing the levels of dopamine within your brain. This leads to an increase in concentration, focus, and motivation.
These medications can also decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity, and aggression. The most popular stimulant medications are methylphenidate (Ritalin) Adderall, and dexedrine.
They can be taken in capsules tablets, pills, or capsules. They are usually taken in the morning and are released into the bloodstream after a few hours.
There are two types of stimulants: long-acting and short-acting stimulants. Both are available in generic forms and can be used safely and effectively to treat ADHD.
A lot of children and adults like the stimulants with longer-lasting effects. However they can be costly and can have a long-lasting side effect. This kind of medication should be used only once daily.
Some adults and children who consume stimulants are at an increased risk of developing heart problems. You should be aware of any changes in heart rate or blood pressure. If there is a problem your doctor can alter the dosage or stop taking the medication.
Stimulant medicines can trigger a number of adverse reactions but the majority are mild and fade over time. Some people experience nausea or vomiting while taking these drugs, but it is uncommon. Some suffer a slight increase in their blood pressure and heart rate.
The effects typically last only a few hours, so they can easily be controlled with adjustments to the medication's schedule or dosage. Certain medicines may cause mild or none at all, but others can cause severe side effects that require hospitalization.
If your doctor prescribes a medication for your child she will take into account his weight as well as age and other factors that can influence the effectiveness of the medication. She will also alter the dosage of the medicine your child is taking to achieve the best results.
Some of the side effects could be serious, for instance, seizures or low blood pressure. It is imperative to contact your physician if you notice any of the symptoms.
Other side effects that may be experienced are not as serious and include sleep issues, irritability, and increased appetite. Certain medications may cause tics that are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing.
Tics are quite common among children with ADHD and can make it hard to concentrate. Tics can be a frustrating and scary experience for parents, which is why it's essential to be aware of them.
Consult your physician If you think that your child is developing tic. You may be able to get a medication with no side effects.
The first drugs prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are the methylphenidate (Elvanse) and lisdexamfetamine, (Elvanse). The medication should be introduced slowly and the dosage adjusted periodically to achieve the most beneficial results for your child.
Other medications can be used to treat ADHD for example, antidepressants and high blood pressure medications. These medications affect the brain's Norepinephrine and dopamine levels. These drugs can be an effective alternative to stimulant medication in the event that it isn't effective or has too many negative side effects.