Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types of licensed ADHD medication available in the UK - those that contain the chemical methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL, Equasym XL) or dexamfetamine (eg Elvanse).
Stimulants increase the activity in the brain, specifically areas that play a part in controlling attention and behavior. They also help reduce the amount of impulsivity. Other medications used to treat ADHD include atomoxetine as well as antidepressants such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that can cause problems with attention, impulse control and sometimes hyperactivity. It can affect both adults and children, and can cause difficulties at school, at work and in relationships.
The exact causes of ADHD are unclear but the disorder is believed to be linked to certain chemical changes in the brain , which cause the symptoms. These chemicals are referred to as neurotransmitters. They include norepinephrine and dopamine.
These neurotransmitters are among the most effective targets for medications which reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications could comprise an array of stimulants, non-stimulants, or one medication.
Typically, medications are utilized in conjunction with behavioral therapy. This can help you gain new skills and modify your behaviors. It is essential to get enough sleep and eat a nutritious and balanced diet.
Exercise can be beneficial to ADHD symptoms. It boosts brain levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and can reduce the severity of the symptoms. This can make a person with ADHD feel less tired and more focused.
You can also ease ADHD symptoms by avoiding caffeine-rich or sugary beverages, getting enough rest in, exercising regularly, and maintaining good mental health. It's also helpful to keep an optimistic mindset and adhere to a regular routine.
If you or your child have ADHD It is important to keep an eye on your symptoms and report them to your doctor. Your doctor will monitor your progress and make any necessary changes to your treatment plan.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is the combination of medications, behavior therapy, and skill development. Multimodal treatment is more effective than medication alone but it could require some time to find the most effective combination.
ADHD stimulants are the most common medication prescribed. At first, they are usually taken in small doses every day. Extended-release or long-acting formulations that are slowly absorbed into the bloodstream and wear down slowly could be more effective for some people. They reduce the rebound effect which occurs when the drug wears off and symptoms recur.
Doctors might prescribe stimulants in addition to other medicines that improve focus and attention. These are called nonstimulants. They take longer to work than stimulants but can be more efficient for ADHD patients.
It's crucial to talk to your doctor about the side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child is taking. Some of these adverse effects can be serious, like anxiety or depression. These symptoms can be reduced by adjusting the dose.
Other side effects that are common include irritability and trouble in concentrating. Keep a diary to track any side effects and report them to your doctor. This information can be shared with your family members as well as anyone else who may be able assist you.
It isn't easy to concentrate on your tasks if you experience difficulty focusing. You might not remember to complete your homework or skip social gatherings or meetings you had to attend.
Stimulants
Stimulant medicines have the longest history of treating ADHD and are the most frequently prescribed medication for attention deficit disorder (ADD). They increase the levels of brain dopamine. This results in a greater concentration, focus and motivation. It also increases overall effectiveness.
adhd without medication can also decrease the impulsivity, hyperactivity, and aggression. The most popular stimulant medicines are methylphenidate, Adderall, or dexedrine.
They are available as pills, capsules, or tablets. They are usually taken early in the morning and released into the bloodstream after a few hours.
There are two types of stimulants: long-acting and short-acting stimulants. Both are available in generic forms and can be used safely and effectively to treat ADHD.
Adults and children alike like longer-acting stimulants. They can be expensive and could cause more adverse effects. This type of medication should be used only for a single dose per day.
Adults and children who are dependent on stimulants are at a higher risk of developing heart disease. You should monitor them for any changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Your doctor can alter the dosage or even stop the medication if there is a problem.
Stimulant medications can cause a number of side effects, but most are mild and disappear over time. Some people experience nausea or vomiting when taking these medications, however, it is uncommon. Some people experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
These side effects typically last for about an hour and can be easily managed by adjusting the medication's dose or schedule. Certain medicines can cause minimal or no side effects, but others can cause severe adverse effects that require hospitalization.
If your doctor prescribes a medication for your child, she will take into account his weight, age, and any other factors that may impact the effectiveness of the medicine. Your doctor will adjust the dosage of the medicine that your child is taking 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 notice any of these signs, call your doctor immediately.
Other side effects are less severe and can include problems sleeping, irritability, or increased appetite. Tics, which may be rapid, repetitive movements or sounds, like eye blinks or throat clearing can also be caused by some medication.
Tics are very common in children who suffer from ADHD and can make it difficult for them to concentrate. Tics can be an incredibly frustrating and terrifying experience for parents, so it is important to be aware of these.
Speak to your doctor If you suspect that your child is developing tic. He might suggest that you look into a medication that isn't likely to cause for this type of side effect.
The first medications that are prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are methylphenidate (Elvanse) and lisdexamfetamine, (Elvanse). For the best results, the medications should be taken slowly and dosage should be adjusted regularly.
Other medications can be used to treat ADHD like antidepressants and high blood pressure medications. These medications work by working on the brain's dopamine levels and norepinephrine levels. These drugs can be an effective alternative to stimulant medication which doesn't work or has too many adverse negative effects.