Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three kinds of UK-licensed ADHD medications: those that contain the methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL or Equasym XL) and those that contain dexamfetamine.
Stimulants increase the activity in the brain, particularly areas that are involved in controlling attention and behaviour. They also can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive. Other medications used to treat ADHD include atomoxetine and antidepressants, such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that can cause problems with attention as well as impulse control and sometimes hyperactivity. It can affect children and adults, and can cause problems at work, school, and in relationships.
Although the specific cause of ADHD is unknown however, it is believed that certain chemical changes in the brain might be responsible for the symptoms. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters and include dopamine and norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters are the most effective targets for drugs that can reduce ADHD symptoms. These drugs can be combined with stimulants and other non-stimulants, or could be a single drug.
Medication is usually used in combination with behavioral therapy that can help you change your behavior and develop new skills. It is also essential to get enough sleep and eat a balanced diet.
Exercise can ease ADHD symptoms. It increases brain levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and may reduce the severity of the symptoms. This can help ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less restless.
You can also reduce ADHD symptoms by avoiding caffeine-rich or sugary beverages, getting enough sleep in, exercising regularly, and maintaining good mental health. It's also helpful to keep positive attitudes and adhere to a consistent schedule.
If you or your child has ADHD it is essential to keep the track of your symptoms and inform your doctor about them. Your doctor will monitor your progress through treatment and should necessary, make changes to the treatment plan.
Combining treatment with behavior therapy or skill training is the best treatment for ADHD. Multimodal treatment can be more effective than just medications however it could take some time to find the best combination for you.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. At first, they are usually taken in small doses every day. Some people respond better to long-acting or extended release formulations that build slowly in the bloodstream and wear off slowly. They can reduce the rebound effect, which is when the drug wears off and the symptoms return.
In addition to stimulants, doctors also prescribe a few other kinds of medicines which work in the brain to improve attention and focus. These are known as non-stimulants and take longer to start working than stimulants, but are more effective for some people with ADHD.
Talk to your doctor about side effects of ADHD medication your child or you are taking. Some of these side effects may be serious, such as depression or agitation. The dose adjustment can help with these issues.
Other adverse effects that are common are irritability as well as difficulty concentration. Journals will help you keep track of your side effects and report them to your doctor. This information can be shared with family members and anyone else who might be able to help you.
It isn't easy to concentrate on your tasks if you experience difficulty in focusing. You might not remember to complete your homework or fail to attend social gatherings or meetings you had to attend.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is stimulant medications. They are also the most prescribed treatment for the condition known as attention deficit disorder (ADD). They work by increasing levels of dopamine within your brain. This leads to greater concentration, focus, motivation, and overall effectiveness.
These medications also help reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and aggression. The most common stimulant medications are methylphenidate (Ritalin) Adderall, and dexedrine.
They can be consumed as capsules, pills or tablets. They are usually taken early in the morning and released into the bloodstream within some 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.
Adults and kids alike enjoy longer-acting stimulants with longer-lasting effects. However, they can be expensive and may have a longer-lasting adverse side effect. This type of medication is recommended only for a single dose per day.
Certain adults and children who are taking stimulants have an increased risk of heart issues. They should be monitored regularly for any changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor can alter the dosage or discontinue the medication in the event of a problem.
The side effects of stimulant medication can be varied but they are generally minimal and disappear after a while. While nausea and vomiting are common reactions of stimulant medications but this is extremely rare. Some people experience a slight increase in their blood pressure and heart rate.
These side effects usually last for about an hour and can be managed by adjusting the medication's dose or schedule. Certain medications have very little or no side effects However, some can cause serious side effects that require hospitalization.
If your doctor prescribes medication for your child she will take into account his weight as well as age and other factors that may influence the effectiveness of the medicine. Your doctor will alter the dosage of the medication that your child is taking to ensure that you get the best outcomes.
The side effects could include seizures and low blood pressure. You should immediately contact your physician if you notice any of the symptoms.
Other side effects that can be experienced are not as serious like sleeping problems, irritability, and increased appetite. Certain medications can trigger tics which are sudden repetitive movements or sounds such as eye blinks or throat clearing.
Tics can be a typical issue in ADHD children and can make it difficult to concentrate. Parents must be aware that tics can be frustrating and frightening.
Consult adhd medication uk If you suspect that your child is developing tic. You might be able to obtain a treatment that does not have adverse side effects.
The first medications prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are the methylphenidate (Elvanse) and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). To get the best outcomes, the medication should be taken slowly and the dosage must be adjusted frequently.
There are other medicines that can aid in controlling ADHD such as high blood pressure medications as well as antidepressants. These medications affect the brain's norepinephrine and dopamine levels. They can be an effective alternative if stimulant medications don't work or causes too many adverse negative effects.