Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three kinds of licensed ADHD medication in the UK which contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL, Equasym XL) or dexamfetamine (eg Elvanse).
Stimulants increase the activity within the brain, particularly areas that are involved in regulating attention and behavior. They can also help reduce the tendency to be impulsive. Other medications that treat ADHD include atomoxetine and antidepressants, such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that leads to issues with attention, impulse control and sometimes hyperactivity. It affects both children and adults and can create issues in work, school and relationships.
Although the root of ADHD is not known but it appears that some chemical changes in the brain might be the reason for the symptoms. These chemicals are referred to as neurotransmitters and include dopamine and norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters are the most effective targets of medications that reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications can be mixed with stimulants and non-stimulants , or they could be a singular medication.
The use of medication is typically in conjunction with behavioral therapy which can help you change behaviors and gain new skills. It is crucial to get enough sleep and eat a balanced well-balanced diet.
Exercise can help with ADHD symptoms. It increases brain levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and can reduce the severity of the symptoms. This can help ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less restless.
Other factors that can aid in the treatment of ADHD include avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks, getting adequate sleep as well as exercising regularly and ensuring good mental health. It's also beneficial to maintain a positive attitude and stick to a regular routine.
It is important to monitor and be sure to report ADHD symptoms to your doctor whether you or your child is suffering from them. Your doctor will track your progress through treatment and should necessary, make changes to the treatment plan.
Combining behavior therapy, medication or skill training is the best treatment for ADHD. Multimodal treatment can be more effective than medications alone, but it might take some time to identify the right combination.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. In the beginning the treatment, they are typically administered in small doses , once a day. Certain individuals respond better to long-acting or extended release formulations that slowly build up in the bloodstream and take a long time to wear off. These reduce the rebound effect, which is when the drug wears off and symptoms return.
In addition to stimulants doctors also prescribe a few different types of drugs that affect the brain to improve attention and focus. These are referred to as nonstimulants. They are more difficult to use than stimulants but can be more efficient for ADHD patients.
Discuss with your doctor the side effects of ADHD medication your child or you are taking. These adverse effects can cause anxiety and depression. These adverse effects can be controlled by adjusting the dose.
Other symptoms that are typical include irritability and difficulty in concentrating. Journals will help you keep track of your side effects and communicate them to your doctor. You can also give this information to your family members or anyone else who might be able to assist you.
If you are having trouble focusing on tasks, it can be difficult to finish your work on time at school or in the workplace. You might not remember to complete your homework, or you may miss social gatherings or meetings you had to attend.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is to take stimulant medication. They are also the most frequently prescribed medication for the treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD). They work by increasing the levels of dopamine that your brain produces. This leads to an increase in concentration, focus, and motivation.
These medications can also be used to lower aggression, hyperactivity and impulsivity. The most common stimulant medications are methylphenidate (Ritalin) Adderall, and dexedrine.
They can be taken as capsules, pills, or tablets. They are typically taken in the morning and are released into the bloodstream after several hours.
There are two kinds of stimulants: short-acting and long-acting. Both are available in generic formulations and are a secure, effective treatment for ADHD.
A majority of adults and children prefer the stimulants with longer-lasting effects. However, they can be expensive and may cause a long-lasting side effect. This kind of medication should be used only once daily.
Children and adults who use stimulants are at a higher risk of developing heart disease. They should be monitored regularly for changes in their heart rate and blood pressure. If a problem develops your doctor can alter the dosage or cease taking the medication.
Side effects of stimulant medications are a myriad of things, but most are minimal and disappear after a while. Although nausea and vomiting are common side effects of stimulant medications however, they are extremely rare. Others experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
These effects are usually for a few hours and can be easily managed by adjusting the medication's dosage or schedule. While some medications can have minimal or no side effects, others can trigger serious side effects that require hospitalization.
When your doctor prescribes medication for your child, she will consider his weight, age, and any other factors that might impact the effectiveness of the medicine. adhd without medication will adjust the dosage of the medicine that your child takes to ensure that you get the best outcomes.
Some of the side effects could be serious, such as seizures or low blood pressure. If you observe any of these symptoms make sure to contact your doctor right away.
Other side effects are less than serious, and may include difficulty sleeping, irritability, or an increase in appetite. Tics, which may be sudden, repetitive movements or sounds such as eye blinks or throat clearing can also be caused by certain medication.
Tics are a frequent issue in ADHD children and can make it difficult for them to concentrate. Parents should be aware that Tics can be frustrating and frightening.
Talk to your doctor If you think your child is developing tic. You might be able to obtain a treatment that does not have adverse side effects.
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 adjusted frequently to achieve the most effective results for your child.
There are other drugs that can help control ADHD such as high blood pressure medications as well as antidepressants. These medications affect the brain's Norepinephrine and dopamine levels. They can be a good alternative to stimulant medication if it doesn't work or has excessive side effects.