ADHD Medication in the UK
The medications for ADHD assist in reducing symptoms by increasing the activity of certain regions of the brain. They also stimulate neurotransmitters which are absent in people with ADHD.
In the UK stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed medication for adult ADHD. They help by increasing brain activity in areas that are involved in impulse control and attention.
Stimulants
There are two types of medications that are approved for use in the UK to treat adult ADHD stimulants and non-stimulant drugs. The stimulants are typically used as the first choice because they increase activity in the areas of the brain that help regulate attention and behaviour. They include methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin) and the lisdexamfetamine (brand names like Vyvanse). These tablets can be taken a few times a day as a short-acting pill or once a week in the form of an extended-acting pill that is released into the bloodstream throughout the day. At first the dosage of the medication might require adjustment and monitored (titrated), to find the dose that is effective for you.
Stimulants have a long-standing 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 dangerous and can be misused. They are abused because they can make people feel good and can stimulate the brain in ways that can lead to addiction.
The most frequently reported side-effects of stimulants include loss of appetite, trouble sleeping and issues with stomach or digestive system. Modifications in the dosage or frequency of the medication often alleviate these issues. They are generally well-tolerated by most adults. Children may experience more serious side effects, such as the tics, weight gain and irritability.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication works differently to the stimulants and can take a while before it starts working. Clonidine and Guanfacine are known as Catapres and Intuniv are alpha agonists. They are able to stimulate the receptors of the brain to increase concentration and reduce behavior issues like aggression and tics. They can be taken on their own or as a supplement alongside ADHD stimulant medications in children aged 6-17 years old.
Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) is another non-stimulant medication for ADHD that boosts levels of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline to improve impulse control and improve concentration. It is available as a standalone medication, but it is most commonly combined with guanfacine for children. These drugs are less likely to cause the same adverse effects as stimulants, yet they can still cause a range of them such as headaches and insomnia.
Atomoxetine
Certain children aren't able to respond to stimulant medications such as Adderall and Ritalin. Nonstimulants are available for children with ADHD. They improve the signaling between nerves and regions of the brain, helping kids concentrate more easily and control impulsivity. Nonstimulant ADHD medicines contain different active ingredients from stimulants and do not have the potential to be abused as they aren't controlled substances.
Atomoxetine (Strattera) is one of the newer non-stimulant medications used to treat ADHD in adults, children and teens. It is an antidepressant which has been proven to decrease ADHD symptoms by increasing the quantity of a chemical called noradrenaline within the brain. Noradrenaline is an ingredient that transmits messages between brain cells. It's also involved in motivation, impulsivity and attention.
Atomoxetine, because of its unique mechanism of action, does not have the same side effects that other antidepressants do, such as Wellbutrin or Effexor. It is available to children as young as 5 years old. It is taken either once or twice a day in tablet form. Atomoxetine gives you a steady, 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms. It can help reduce the effects at night when stimulants have worn off.
medication for adhd adults and clonidine are available as non-stimulant ADHD medication. They are prescribed to children who haven't had a positive response to stimulant medication or have trouble dealing with its adverse effects. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with stimulants, like Adderall XR (amphetamine salts), for an effective treatment of ADHD.
If you or your child is being treated with an non-stimulant ADHD medication, make sure you follow your GP's instructions carefully. They may suggest starting with low doses and gradually increasing them. They will also want to be aware of any other medications you or your child are taking to ensure that there aren't any interactions. You'll need to schedule regular appointments with your GP and let them know if you experience any issues or side effects. They'll be able to alter your dosage or give advice alternative treatments, such as talk therapy.
Unlicensed Medication
The treatment for ADHD in adults is a range of stimulant and non-stimulant drugs. Psychologists can also prescribe drugs that are 'off label' (these are substances that are licensed for a different condition, but have evidence emerging for effectiveness in adult ADHD). These medications are typically antidepressants such as Venflaxine or bupropion. medication for adhd adults have demonstrated some benefit in the condition, and are well tolerated at smaller doses.
Unlicensed medicines may be prescribed to patients if there is a real clinical need that cannot be satisfied by a licensed medicine. Patients whose usual medication has been temporarily stopped due to a disruption of supply, or patients who require a liquid version of a licensed capsule or tablet for reasons such as intolerance or allergies can all be affected.
Unlicensed medicines are often called'specials' however, this can also apply to medicines which are 'off-label', or that are prepared or distributed in a manner that is not covered under the license of the medicine. For instance, some examples include crushing tablets to make them easier for patients to swallow. Others could include adding liquid to tablets or capsules licensed by the FDA to create a mixture that can be administered by injection.
In general healthcare professionals will employ unlicensed drugs as a last resort and when they believe that no licensed alternative is available. They will carefully evaluate the various options available to meet the individual requirements of each patient. They will also review the results and treatment regularly, in light of their clinical experience and the availability of new licensed treatments.
It is essential that any unlicensed medicine used to treat patients is safe and effective, and the reason for prescribing it is recorded in the patient's record. Note any adverse reactions the patient may experience as a result of an off-label medication by using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. This information will be used by the MHRA to revise the marketing authorisation for the medicine and ensure future prescriptions are safe and effective.
Talk Therapy
A therapist working with you to help to understand your symptoms and discover ways to manage. They can also give you advice and support about how to alter your way of thinking and behavior to feel more positive. It is important to complete the amount of sessions your therapist recommends as this will help in feeling more positive.
The quantity of neurotransmitters in your brain can help reduce ADHD symptoms. These are substances that allow your neurons to pass on messages and help you focus your thoughts and stay clear of distractions. There are two main kinds of medications used to treat ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants. They function in different ways, but all increase the availability of neurotransmitters in your brain.
In the UK there are many medications that can be used to treat ADHD. The most popular is methylphenidate, available in both immediate-release tablets (small doses taken two to three times per day) and modified-release tablets (taken once a day but released throughout the day). These medications are not an answer, but they can assist you manage an impulsive behaviour and help you focus. They are usually well-tolerated but your specialist will closely monitor you to ensure you receive the right dosage and do not experience any side effects. It may take several weeks before the medication reaches its optimal level. It is also possible to increase the dosage (change your dose regularly) to find out what works best.
Non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine that is available by prescription only, can be more efficient than stimulants and do not have the same possibility of addiction. They have a stronger evidence base but they are not as well-liked and some have issues with appetite, memory or sleep. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress and determine whether to keep taking atomoxetine or switch to a different treatment.
People suffering from ADHD are unable to discover permanent solutions using treatment or medication. However, they can enhance your ability to cope with your symptoms and lead a happy life. Combining therapy with medication sessions will help you get the most from your treatment. You'll learn coping strategies and recognize unhelpful patterns of behavior and thinking. Some people's improved mood and self-confidence may last for a long time after treatment.