Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types UK-licensed ADHD medicines: those that contain the 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 also can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive. Other medications that treat ADHD include atomoxetine and antidepressants like bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is an illness of the brain that can cause issues with attention to impulse control, attention span, and even hyperactivity. It can affect adults and children. It can cause difficulties at school, at work, and in relationships.
While the specific cause of ADHD is unknown however, it is believed that certain chemical changes in the brain might be the cause of the symptoms. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters and include dopamine and norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters are the most effective targets for medications that can reduce ADHD symptoms. These medications can be combined with stimulants and non-stimulants , or they might be a single drug.
Usually, medications are employed in conjunction with behavior therapy. This can help you master new skills and alter your behavior. It is also essential to sleep well and eat a healthy diet.
Exercise can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. It boosts brain levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and can reduce the severity of the symptoms. This can help ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less anxious.
You can also ease ADHD symptoms by avoiding caffeine-rich or sugary drinks, getting enough sleep in, exercising regularly, and maintaining good mental health. It's also beneficial to maintain positive attitudes and adhere to a regular schedule.
If you or your child has ADHD, it's important to keep track of your symptoms and report them to your doctor. Your doctor will track your development and make any needed changes to the treatment plan.
Combining therapy with medication and skill-training is the best treatment for ADHD. Multimodal treatment is more effective than just medication, but it might take some time to identify the best combination.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medication for ADHD. They are typically prescribed once per day in small amounts to begin. Certain people are more responsive to extended release or long-acting formulations that slowly build up in the bloodstream, and fade slowly. These can reduce the effect of rebound which occurs when symptoms return when the drug wears off.
Doctors may prescribe stimulants in addition to other medicines that help improve attention and focus. These are known as non-stimulants. They require more time to begin working than stimulants, but are more effective for those with ADHD.
It's important to talk to your doctor about the possible side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child taking. Some of these side effects could be severe, like anxiety or depression. These adverse effects can be controlled by adjusting the dose.
Other side effects that are common include irritability and trouble working. A journal will help you keep track of your reactions and inform your doctor. The information you record can be shared with your family members as well as anyone else who might be able to help you.
It isn't easy to concentrate on tasks when you have difficulty staying focused. You might forget to do your homework or miss social events or meetings that you had to attend.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is to take stimulant medication. They are also the most prescribed treatment for the treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD). They boost brain dopamine levels. This leads to an increase in focus, concentration and motivation.
These medications can also be used to reduce hyperactivity, aggression, and impulse control. The most commonly used stimulant medications are methylphenidate, Adderall, or dexedrine.
They can be consumed as capsules, pills or tablets. They are typically taken in the morning and released into the bloodstream within several hours.
There are two types of stimulants: long-acting and short-acting. Both are available in generic forms and are safe and effectively to treat ADHD.
adhd medication list and adults alike prefer longer-acting stimulants that are longer-acting. However, they can be expensive and may cause a long-lasting adverse side effect. This kind of medication should be administered only for a single dose per day.
Some children and adults who take stimulants have an increased risk of developing heart issues. They need to be monitored regularly for changes in their blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor may alter the dosage or discontinue the medication in the event of a problem.
The side effects of stimulant medication can be diverse, but most are minimal and disappear after a while. Some people experience nausea or vomiting while taking these medications, but it is uncommon. Some people experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
These effects are usually for only a few hours, and are easily controlled by adjusting the medication's dose or schedule. While some medications may have no side effects or mild side effects, other medications can trigger serious side effects that require hospitalization.
Your doctor will take into consideration your child's weight and age when prescribing medication to your child. Your doctor will alter the dosage of the medication that your child is prescribed to ensure the most effective results.
Seizures are a common side effect. and low blood pressure. It is important to immediately notify your doctor if you notice any of the signs.
Other side effects are less severe and could include issues sleeping, irritability or an increase in appetite. Certain medications can cause tics which are sudden repeated movements or sounds, such as eye blinking or throat clearing.
Tics can be a common problem in ADHD children and can make it difficult for them to concentrate. Tics can be a frustrating and frightening experience for parents, so it's essential to be aware of them.
Discuss with your doctor if you suspect that your child is developing tic. You might be able obtain a treatment that does not have adverse side effects.
In the UK The UK, methylphenidate, and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are typically the first drugs prescribed to treat ADHD. To achieve the most effective results, the medication should be taken slowly and the dosage must be adjusted frequently.
There are other medications that can help control ADHD like high blood pressure medication and antidepressants. These medications work by acting on the brain's levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These medications are an effective alternative to stimulant medications when it isn't working or has too many negative side consequences.