Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types of UK-licensed ADHD medications that contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL or Equasym XL) and those that contain dexamfetamine.
Stimulants can increase brain activity, especially in areas that control the behaviour and attention. They can also help reduce impulsivity. Other medications used to treat ADHD include atomoxetine and antidepressants such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that leads to problems with attention as well as impulse control and hyperactivity. It can affect both children and adults, and can cause issues at school, at work and in relationships.
Although the root of ADHD is unknown however, it is believed that certain chemical changes in the brain could be responsible for the symptoms. These chemicals are referred to as neurotransmitters, and include dopamine as well as norepinephrine.
Treatments that lessen ADHD symptoms have the highest effectiveness at targeting these neurotransmitters. These medications can be an amalgamation of stimulants and non-stimulants . They also could be a single drug.
Medication is usually used in combination with behavioral therapy that can help you change your behavior and develop new abilities. It's also important to get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet.
Exercise can reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD as it increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This can help ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less restless.
Other ways to aid in the treatment of ADHD include the avoidance of caffeinated drinks and sugary drinks, getting enough sleep in addition to exercising and maintaining a healthy and balanced mental health. It's also beneficial to have positive attitudes and adhere to a regular routine.
If you or your child have ADHD it is essential to keep in mind your symptoms and notify your doctor. Your doctor will monitor your progress in treatment and should it be necessary, make adjustments to the treatment plan.
Combining therapy with medication and skill training is the best way to treat ADHD. Multimodal therapy can be more effective than just medication however it may take some time to find the ideal combination.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They are typically taken once a day in small doses to begin. Some people are more responsive to long-acting or extended release formulations that build slowly in the bloodstream, and take a long time to wear off. These reduce the rebound effect, which is when the drug is worn off and symptoms come back.
In addition to stimulants, doctors also prescribe a few other types of medication that work with the brain to improve focus and focus. These medications are known as nonstimulants. They take longer to work as stimulants, but are more effective for ADHD patients.
It is important to speak with your doctor about the side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child taking. These side effects can lead to anxiety and depression. These side effects can be cured by adjusting the dose.
Other symptoms that are typical include irritability , and difficulty concentration. Keep a journal to track side effects and inform your doctor. The information you record can be shared with family members as well as anyone else who may be able to assist you.
It can be difficult to concentrate on your tasks if you experience difficulties focus. You might be unable to finish your homework, or you may miss social events or meetings that you were required to attend.
Stimulants
Stimulant drugs have the longest track record in treating ADHD and are the most frequently prescribed medication for attention deficit disorder (ADD). They increase brain dopamine levels. This leads to an increase in focus, concentration, and motivation.
These medications can also decrease hyperactivity, impulsivity, as well as aggression. The most well-known stimulant drugs are methylphenidate (Ritalin) and adderall and dexedrine.
They can be consumed in capsules, pills, or tablets. They are usually taken in the morning and are released into the bloodstream over several hours.
There are two types: short-acting stimulants and long-acting stimulants. Both are available in generic formulations and are safeand effective treatment for ADHD.
A majority of adults and children prefer the more powerful stimulants. However they can be costly and could have a longer-lasting negative side effect. If you choose to take this type make sure you adhere to the prescriptions of your doctor and only take one dose per day.
Some children and adults who are exposed to stimulants are at an increased risk of developing heart problems. They need to be monitored regularly for any changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor can alter the dosage or cease the medication when there is a concern.
The effects of stimulant drugs can be a variety, but most are relatively minor and go away over time. Although nausea and vomiting are common adverse effects of stimulant drugs however, they are extremely rare. Others may experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
These side effects usually last for a short time and are able to be controlled by tweaks to the medication's schedule or dose. While some medications can have no side effects or have mild adverse effects, others may cause serious reactions that require hospitalization.
Your doctor will consider the weight and age of your child when prescribing medication to your child. She will also adjust the dosage of the medicine your child takes to get the most effective results.
Seizures are a common side effect. and low blood pressure. If you notice any of these symptoms you should contact your doctor immediately.
Other side effects that can be experienced are less serious, such as difficulty sleeping or irritability and an increase in appetite. Tics, which are rapid, repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinks or throat clearing may also be caused by certain medications.
Tics are very common in children who suffer from ADHD and can make it hard to concentrate. Tics can be an incredibly frustrating and scary experience for parents, which is why it's crucial to be aware of these.
Consult your physician If you think that your child is developing tic. He might suggest that you consider a treatment that doesn't pose the risk for this type of side effect.
The first medications prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are the methylphenidate (Elvanse) and lisdexamfetamine, (Elvanse). To get medication for adults with add , the medication must be taken at a slow pace and dosages should be adjusted frequently.
Other medications can be used to treat ADHD, such as antidepressants and high blood pressure medications. These drugs work by acting on the brain's dopamine levels and norepinephrine levels. They can be an effective alternative to stimulant medication in the event that it isn't effective or has too many side consequences.