Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types of licensed ADHD medication in the UK - those that contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL, Equasym XL) or dexamfetamine (eg Elvanse).
Stimulants stimulate brain activity, especially in areas that regulate attention and behavior. They also can help reduce the tendency to be impulsive. Other ADHD treatments include atomoxetine bupropion and antidepressants, such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that leads to problems with attention, impulse control and sometimes hyperactivity. It affects children as well as adults and can lead to issues in work, school and in relationships.
The precise causes of ADHD aren't clear However, the disorder appears to be linked to specific chemical changes in the brain , which cause the symptoms. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters. They include dopamine and norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters are among the most effective targets of medications that reduce ADHD symptoms. They can be mixed with stimulants and non-stimulants , or they may be a single medication.
Medication is usually used in combination with behavioral therapy, which can help you alter your behavior and develop new abilities. It is crucial to get enough sleep and eat a balanced, balanced diet.
Exercise can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. It increases brain levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and may reduce the severity of symptoms. This can help ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less anxious.
Other ways to help with the symptoms of ADHD include avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks, getting adequate sleep, exercising and maintaining a healthy mental state. It is important to maintain an optimistic mindset and adhere to a routine.
If you or your child has ADHD It is important to keep track of your symptoms and report them to your doctor. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress through treatment and should necessary, make changes to the treatment plan.
Combining behavior therapy, medication, skill training is the most effective way to treat ADHD. Multimodal treatment can be more effective than medications alone however it may take some time to find the right combination.
ADHD stimulants are the most common medication prescribed. They are typically taken once daily in small doses starting. Long-acting or extended-release formulations that build slowly in the bloodstream and wear down gradually may be more effective for certain people. They reduce the rebound effect which occurs when the drug wears off and symptoms recur.
Doctors may prescribe stimulants in addition to other drugs which improve focus and concentration. These are referred to as non-stimulants and take longer to start working as stimulants, however, they are more effective in certain people suffering from ADHD.
Consult your physician about side effects of ADHD medication your child or you are taking. These side effects can lead to anxiety and depression. Sometimes, adjusting the dosage can help with these issues.
Other side effects that are common can be minor, such as irritability or difficulty concentrating. Writing down your experiences in a journal can help you track the side effects you experience and notify your doctor. You can also communicate this information with family members or anyone else who might be able to assist you.
If you are having trouble focusing on your work, it may be difficult to keep deadlines in school or in the workplace. You may forget to finish your homework or skip important social occasions.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is using stimulant medications. They are also the most prescribed treatment for the condition known as attention deficit disorder (ADD). They increase the levels of brain dopamine. This increases concentration, focus and motivation. It also increases overall effectiveness.
These medications can also be used to reduce hyperactivity, aggression and the impulsivity. The most well-known stimulant drugs are methylphenidate (Ritalin) as well as adderall and dexedrine.
They can be taken in the form of capsules, pills, or tablets. They are typically taken in the morning and are released into the bloodstream over some time.
There are two kinds of stimulants: short-acting stimulants and longer-acting stimulants. Both are available in generic formulations and are a effective, safe treatment for ADHD.
A lot of children and adults like the stimulants with longer-lasting effects. They can be expensive and can cause more side effects. This kind of medication should be taken only once daily.
Some adults and children who are taking stimulants have an increased risk of developing heart problems. They need to be monitored regularly for changes in heart rate and blood pressure. If a problem develops the doctor may alter the dosage or discontinue taking the medication altogether.
adhd medication for adults can cause a number of side effects however, the majority of them are mild and fade over time. While nausea and vomiting are common adverse effects of stimulant medication, this is very rare. Others experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
The effects of these side effects typically last for several hours and can be controlled by adjusting the medication's dose or schedule. While some medications may have no side effects or only mild adverse effects, others may cause serious side reactions 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 medication. Your doctor will alter the dosage of the medication that your child is prescribed to ensure the highest quality outcomes.
Certain of the side effects can be serious, for instance, seizures or low blood pressure. If you observe any of these symptoms contact your doctor immediately.
Other side effects that may be experienced are less serious like sleeping problems, irritability, and increased appetite. Tics, that are frequent, rapid movements or sounds such as the sound of a throat clearing or eye blinking may also be caused by certain medication.
Tics can be a common issue for ADHD children and can make it difficult for them to concentrate. Parents should be aware that Tics can be extremely frustrating and scary.
If you think your child might be developing a tic disorder, talk to your doctor. You might be able to obtain a treatment that does not have side effects.
In the UK In the United Kingdom, methylphenidate as well as lisdexam (Elvanse) are usually the first drugs recommended to treat ADHD. The medication should start slowly and the dosage should be adjusted regularly to get the most beneficial results for your child.
Other medications can be utilized to treat ADHD, such as antidepressants or high blood pressure medications. These medications affect the brain's Norepinephrine and dopamine levels. They can be a great alternative if stimulant medications don't work or causes too many adverse consequences.