Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three kinds of UK-licensed ADHD medicines: those that contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL or Equasym XL) and those that contain dexamfetamine.
Stimulants stimulate brain activity, especially in areas that control the behaviour and attention. They can also 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 causes issues with attention to impulse control, and occasionally hyperactivity. It can affect both adults and children. It can cause issues at school, at work, and in relationships.
The exact causes of ADHD are not known However, the disorder appears to be related to chemical changes in the brain that trigger the symptoms. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters. They include dopamine and norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters are the most effective targets of medications that help reduce ADHD symptoms. These drugs may include the combination of stimulants and non-stimulants, or one medication.
Usually, medication is employed in conjunction with behavior therapy. This can help you learn new skills and change your behaviors. It is essential to get enough sleep and eat a healthy and balanced diet.
Exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD as it increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This can make a person suffering from ADHD feel less agitated and more focused.
Other things that can help with the symptoms of ADHD include avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks, getting enough rest in addition to exercising and ensuring good mental health. It's also beneficial to maintain positive attitudes and adhere to a regular routine.
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD it is essential to keep track of your symptoms and notify your doctor. Your doctor will keep track of your progress in treatment and if necessary, make changes to the plan.
Combining therapy with medication and skill training is the best way to treat ADHD. Multimodal treatment can be more effective than medications alone but it could take some time to determine the best combination.
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medication for ADHD. In the beginning they are typically taken in small doses every day. Extended-release or long-acting formulations that are slowly absorbed into the bloodstream and then wear off gradually may be more effective for some people. These reduce the rebound effect that occurs when symptoms return after the drug wears off.
In addition to stimulants, doctors may also prescribe different types of drugs that work in the brain to improve attention and focus. These medications are called non-stimulants. They take longer to work as stimulants, however, they are more effective in certain people suffering from ADHD.
Discuss with your doctor about possible side effects of ADHD medication your child or you are taking. Some of these side effects may be severe, like anxiety or depression. adhd medication for adults can be alleviated by adjusting the dose.
Other symptoms that are typical include irritability and trouble in concentrating. Keep a record of any side effects and report them to your doctor. This information can be shared with your family members and anyone else who might be able to assist.
It can be difficult to concentrate on tasks if you're having difficulty focusing. You may forget to complete your homework or skip social gatherings or meetings you were required to attend.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is to take stimulant medication. They are also the most prescribed medication for attention deficit disorder (ADD). They work by increasing the levels of dopamine in your brain. This increases focus, concentration and motivation. It also increases overall effectiveness.
These drugs can be used to decrease hyperactivity, aggression and the impulsivity. The most well-known stimulant drugs are methylphenidateand adderall or dexedrine.
They can be taken as capsules tablets, pills, or capsules. They are usually taken early in the morning and released into the bloodstream after just a few hours.
There are two kinds of stimulants: short-acting and long-acting stimulants. Both are available in generic forms and can be used safely and effectively to treat ADHD.
Adults and children alike prefer longer-acting stimulants. They can be costly and can cause more side effects. If you opt for this kind ensure that you follow your doctor's instructions and take only one dose per day.
Adults and children who use stimulants are at higher risk of developing heart disease. They need to be monitored regularly for changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor may alter the dosage or cease the medication when there is a problem.
Stimulant medications can cause a number of adverse reactions however most of them are minor and disappear over time. Although nausea and vomiting are common adverse effects of stimulant medication however, it is not a common occurrence. Others experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
The effects of these side effects typically last for a few hours and can be managed by adjusting the medication's dose or schedule. Certain medicines may cause mild or no side effects, but others can cause serious adverse effects that require hospitalization.
When your doctor prescribes a medication for your child, she will take into account his weight and age as well as any other factors that could affect the effectiveness of the medication. The doctor will also alter the dosage of the medicine your child is taking to achieve the most benefit from the medication.
Some of the side effects can be serious, like seizures or low blood pressure. If you notice any of these symptoms you should contact your doctor immediately.
Other adverse effects that may occur are less serious like sleeping problems or irritability and an increase in appetite. Tics, that are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds such as the sound of a throat clearing or eye blinking can also be caused by some medications.
Tics can be a typical issue for ADHD children and can make it difficult to concentrate. Parents should be aware of the fact that Tics can be a source of anxiety and frustration.
Talk to your doctor If you think your child is developing tic. You may be able to receive a medication that has no adverse effects.
The first medications prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are the methylphenidate (Elvanse), and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). The medication should be taken slowly and the dosage adjusted regularly to achieve the best results for your child.
Other medications are also available to treat ADHD including antidepressants as well as high blood pressure medications. These medications act by working on the brain's dopamine levels and norepinephrine levels. They are a viable option if stimulant medication doesn't work or has excessive side consequences.