Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three kinds of licensed ADHD medication in the UK - those that contain the chemical methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL, Equasym XL) or dexamfetamine (eg Elvanse).
The stimulants stimulate activity within the brain, particularly regions that play a role in controlling attention and behaviour. They also help reduce impulsivity. Other ADHD medications include atomoxetine bupropion, and antidepressants such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that may cause problems with attention as well as impulse control and even hyperactivity. It can affect both adults and children, and can cause problems at work, school, and in relationships.
The exact causes of ADHD aren't clear However, the disorder appears to be related to chemical changes within the brain that cause the symptoms. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters and include dopamine and norepinephrine.
Treatments that lessen ADHD symptoms have the highest effectiveness at targeting these neurotransmitters. These drugs can be combined with 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 learn new skills and alter your behaviors. It is also essential to get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet.
medication for adult adhd can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD, as it boosts levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This can help a person with ADHD feel less agitated and more focused.
Other factors that can aid in reducing symptoms of ADHD include avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks, sleeping enough in addition to exercising and maintaining good mental health. It's also helpful to keep a positive attitude and stick to a consistent schedule.
If you or your child have ADHD It is important to keep in mind your symptoms and inform your doctor about them. Your doctor will keep track of your improvement and make any necessary changes to your treatment plan.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is a combination of medication, behavior therapy, and skill training. Multimodal therapy can be more effective than just medication however it may take some time to determine the right combination.
ADHD stimulants are the most common medication prescribed. They are usually taken once daily in small doses to begin. Certain people are more responsive to long-acting or extended release formulations that build slowly in the bloodstream, and wear off slowly. These reduce the rebound effect which occurs when symptoms return when the drug wears off.
In addition to stimulants doctors also prescribe other types of medications that work in the brain to improve attention and focus. These are known as non-stimulants. They take longer to begin working as stimulants, however, they are more effective in those with ADHD.
It's important to talk to your doctor about the possible side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child is taking. Some of these adverse effects can be serious, for instance, anxiety or depression. Changing the dose can sometimes help with these issues.
Other common side effects can be mild effects, like irritability, or trouble concentrating. Keeping a journal will help you keep track of your side effects and inform your doctor. The information you record can be shared with family members as well as anyone else who might be able to help you.
If you have trouble focusing on tasks, it can be difficult to keep deadlines in school or at work. You might be unable to finish your homework or skip meetings or social events that you had to attend.
Stimulants
Stimulant medicines have the longest track record of treating ADHD and are the most frequently prescribed medication for the treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD). They boost brain dopamine levels. This leads to an increase in focus, concentration, and motivation.
These medications can be used to decrease hyperactivity, aggression, and impulse control. The most commonly used stimulant drugs are methylphenidate (Ritalin), adderall, and dexedrine.
They can be consumed as capsules, pills, or tablets. They are typically taken in the morning and released into the bloodstream after several hours.
There are two kinds: short-acting stimulants and long-acting stimulants. Both are available in generic formulations and are secure, effective treatment for ADHD.
Adults and children alike prefer longer-acting stimulants. They can be costly and may cause more side effects. If you choose this type ensure that you follow the instructions of your physician and only take one dose a day.
Some children and adults who are taking stimulants have an increased risk of developing heart issues. You should be aware of any changes in blood pressure or heart rate. If a problem develops the doctor may alter the dosage or cease taking the medication.
The stimulant medication can cause a variety of adverse effects however most of them are minor and will go away with time. Some people experience nausea or vomiting after taking these drugs, but this is not common. Others may experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
These side effects usually last for a short time and, therefore, they can be controlled by tweaks to the medication's schedule, or dose. Certain medicines may cause minor or no side effects at all However, some can cause serious side effects that require hospitalization.
Your doctor will consider the weight and age of your child when prescribing medication to your child. She may also alter the dosage of the medicine your child takes to get the best results.
Certain of the side effects could be serious, like seizures or low blood pressure. It is imperative to contact your physician if you notice any of these symptoms.
Other side effects that may be experienced are not as serious, such as difficulty sleeping as well as irritability, insomnia, and an increase in appetite. Tics, that are rapid, repetitive movements or sounds such as the sound of a throat clearing or eye blinking may be caused by certain medications.
Tics are quite common among children who suffer from ADHD and can make it difficult for them to concentrate. Tics can be a stressful and frightening experience for parents, so it's crucial to be aware of these.
Discuss with your doctor If you think that your child is developing tic. He may suggest you look into a medication which doesn't have the potential for this side effect.
The first medications prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are the methylphenidate (Elvanse), and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). The medication should be introduced slowly and the dosage should be adjusted regularly to get the most beneficial results for your child.
There are other medications that aid in the treatment of ADHD, including high blood pressure medications and antidepressants. These medications work by working on the brain's dopamine levels and norepinephrine levels. They are a viable option if stimulant medication doesn't work or causes too many adverse negative effects.