ADHD Medication in the UK
Medications for ADHD help to reduce symptoms by boosting the activity of certain regions of the brain. They also increase the production of neurotransmitters which are deficient in people with ADHD.
In the UK the UK, stimulant drugs are the most frequently prescribed treatment for adults with ADHD. They work by increasing brain activity in areas that are involved in the regulation of impulses and attention.
Stimulants
There are two types of medication licensed for use in the UK to treat adult ADHD stimulants and non-stimulant medicines. Stimulants, which enhance brain activity in areas that regulate behavior and attention, are often the first option. They include methylphenidate (often called Ritalin) and the lisdexamfetamine (brand names including Vyvanse). They are available frequently throughout the day in a short-acting tablet or taken once a day in a long-acting tablet that is released into the bloodstream throughout the course of a day. In the beginning the dose of the medication may require adjustment and monitored (titrated), to find the dose that is effective for you.
Stimulants have a long history of use, both medically and as recreational drugs. In the 1930s truck drivers, students, and athletes used amphetamines to boost their energy. Amphetamines are extremely dangerous and have a high risk of abuse. adult add medications are used to make people feel happy and can stimulate the brain in ways that can result in addiction.
The loss of appetite, the difficulties sleeping, and problems with the stomach or digestive system are some of the most frequent side effects of stimulants. Adjustments to the dosage or timing of the medication can help can alleviate these problems. They are generally well-tolerated by adults in general. However, children can have more severe side-effects such as the loss of weight, tics and crankiness.
Non-stimulant ADHD medications work differently than stimulants and can take a while before they begin to show results. Clonidine and Guanfacine (brand names Catapres and Intuniv) are alpha agonists, both of which work by stimulating certain receptors in the brain. This helps improve concentration, decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity, and reduce behavioural issues like tics and aggression. They can be used in addition to ADHD stimulant medications or used on their own by children aged 6-17.
Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) is a non-stimulant medication for ADHD that increases levels of the neurotransmitter Noradrenaline to improve impulse control and concentration. It can be prescribed as its own, but is usually combined with guanfacine in children. These drugs are less likely to have the same adverse effects as stimulants, but can still cause a range of issues, such as headaches and insomnia.
Atomoxetine
Certain children aren't able to respond to stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin. For these kids the nonstimulants, or medications, can be used. They enhance the communication between nerves and regions of the brain, assisting children to concentrate better and manage their impulsivity. Non-stimulant ADHD medicines use different active ingredients in contrast to stimulants, and do not have a potential for abuse, so they aren't controlled substances.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is one of the latest non-stimulant drugs that treat ADHD in adults, children and teenagers. It is an antidepressant that has been proven to decrease ADHD symptoms by increasing the quantity of a chemical called noradrenaline in the brain. Noradrenaline is a chemical that sends messages between brain cells. It's also involved in motivation, impulsivity and attention.
Atomoxetine, because of its unique mechanism of action it does not suffer from the same side-effects as other antidepressants such as Wellbutrin or Effexor. adult add medications is available to children as young as 5 years old. It is administered once or twice a day in tablet form. Atomoxetine offers a stable, 24 hour control over ADHD symptoms. It can help reduce the effects in the evening when the stimulants have worn off.
Both guanfacine and Clonidine are available as non-stimulant ADHD medication. These are typically prescribed to kids who haven't responded to stimulant medications or have issues with their side effects. They can be used alone or in combination with stimulants, such as Adderall XR (amphetamine salts) to offer an effective treatment for ADHD.
Follow the advice of your doctor If you or your child is taking a nonstimulant ADHD medicine. They will likely suggest starting with low doses and gradually increasing the dosage over time. They will also want to know about any other medications your child or you are taking, so they can ensure that whether there are any interactions. You will need to make regular appointments with your GP and inform them of any adverse reactions or have concerns. They'll be able to modify your dosage or provide advice on alternative treatments, such as talk therapy.
Unlicensed Medication
The treatment for ADHD in adults is a mix of stimulant and non-stimulant drugs. Psychiatrists may also prescribe medicines which are 'off-label' for the condition (these are medications that are approved for other conditions, but are showing evidence of effectiveness in adult ADHD). These are typically antidepressants like bupropion or venflaxine, which have been shown to have some beneficial effect on the condition and are well tolerated at lower doses than those used in the licensed treatments.
Sometimes, unlicensed medicines are prescribed for a patient in cases where there is a special clinical need and the prescription cannot be fulfilled by a licensed alternative. This includes patients whose usual medication is unavailable due to disruption in supply or other reasons, or patients who require a liquid formulation of a licensed tablet or capsule for reasons such as intolerance or allergy.
Unlicensed medicines can be referred to as "specials". This term can also be used to refer to medicines that are "off-label" or have been made or delivered in a way that is not covered by the licence. This could include crushing tablets to make them easier to swallow, or adding a liquid to a licensed tablet or capsule to create a mix to be administered via injection, or using a syringe pump to administer the medication subcutaneously (under the skin).
Healthcare professionals will generally only utilize unlicensed medicines as a last resort when they feel there is no licensed alternative. They will carefully evaluate the various options available to meet the unique requirements of each patient. They will also regularly review treatments and outcomes taking into account both clinical experience and new approved treatments.
It is vital that any medication not licensed to treat an individual is safe and effective. The reason for prescribing the medication must be documented in the patient record. Inform about any adverse effects that a patient might experience from an off-label medication using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. This information is used by the MHRA to update the marketing authorisation of the medicine and ensure future prescriptions are safe and effective.
Talk Therapy
A therapist who works with you will assist you in understanding your symptoms and assist you to find ways to manage them. They will be able to provide advice and support in changing your way of thinking and act in order to feel more confident about your life. It is important to complete the amount of sessions your therapist recommends as this will make your feeling better.
Medications help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters that your brain produces. These chemicals allow your neurons pass on messages, helping you focus your mind and stay clear of distractions. There are two kinds of ADHD treatment that include stimulants and non-stimulants. They work in different ways, but they all improve the supply of neurotransmitters in your brain.
There are a number of medicines licensed in the UK to treat ADHD. The most commonly used medication is methylphenidate. It is available in immediate-release tablets that are taken in small doses of 2 to 3 times daily. Or as modified-release tablets that are taken once a week but released over the time of the day. These medications are not an effective cure, but they can help you manage an impulsive behaviour and help you focus. They are generally well-tolerated, but your specialist will closely monitor you to ensure you receive the right dose and that you don't suffer any adverse side negative effects. It could take a few weeks before the medication reaches its maximum level. You may also need to adjust your dosage (change your dose on a regular basis) to find out what is most effective.
Non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine (available only by prescription) can be more effective and have less chance of addiction than stimulants. They are more effective but not as well tolerated. Some patients might experience issues with memory, appetite or sleep. Your specialist will monitor your progress and decide whether you should keep taking Atomoxetine or switch to another treatment.
Neither medications nor therapy are permanent solutions for people with ADHD. They can help you cope with your symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life. Combining medications with regular therapy sessions will help you gain the most benefit from your treatment. You'll learn strategies for coping and identify unhelpful patterns of behavior and thoughts. Some people's improved mood and self-confidence may last for a long time after their treatment.