Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types of UK-licensed ADHD medicines which contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL or Equasym XL) and those that contain dexamfetamine.
The stimulants stimulate activity within the brain, particularly regions that play a role in controlling attention and behavior. They can also 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 issues with attention to impulse control, attention span, and sometimes hyperactivity. It affects both children and adults and can lead to difficulties in school, work and in relationships.
While the exact cause of ADHD is unknown, it appears that certain chemical changes in the brain may be the cause of the symptoms. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters and include dopamine and norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters are the most effective targets of medications that help reduce ADHD symptoms. They can be a combination of stimulants and non-stimulants or they may be a single medication.
Most often, medication is employed in conjunction with behavior therapy. This can help you learn new skills and modify your behavior. It is important to get enough sleep and eat a balanced food plan that is balanced and balanced.
Exercise can reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This can make a person with ADHD feel less restless and more focused.
Other ways to help with the symptoms of ADHD include avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks, getting adequate sleep as well as exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy mental state. It's also helpful to have an optimistic attitude and adhere to a regular schedule.
It is crucial to keep track and report ADHD symptoms to your doctor if you or your child suffer from them. Your doctor will keep track of your progress with treatments and should necessary, make changes to the treatment plan.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is the combination of medications, behavior therapy, and skill training. A multimodal approach is more effective than medication alone but it will take some time to figure out the right combination for you.
ADHD stimulants are the most common medication prescribed. For the first time the treatment, they are typically administered in small doses once daily. Long-actingformulations, also known as extended-release, that build slowly in the bloodstream and break down slowly could be more effective for some people. These minimize the rebound effect which occurs when the symptoms return after the drug wears off.
In addition to stimulants, doctors also prescribe a few other kinds of medicines that work in the brain to increase focus and concentration. These medications are called nonstimulants. They take longer to work than stimulants but can be more effective for ADHD patients.
It's essential to speak to your doctor about any side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child is taking. These reactions can lead to depression and agitation. Sometimes, adjusting the dosage can alleviate these issues.
Other common side effects are mild ones, like irritability and difficulties in concentrating. Keeping a journal will help you keep track of your reactions and report them to your doctor. You can also provide this information to your family members, or anyone else who might be able assist you.
It isn't easy to concentrate on tasks if you have difficulties focusing. You may not remember to complete your homework or miss important social occasions.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is using stimulant medications. They are also the most frequently prescribed treatment for the condition known as attention deficit disorder (ADD). They increase the levels of brain dopamine. This results in an increase in focus, concentration and motivation.
They can also reduce the intensity of hyperactivity, impulsivity and aggression. The most well-known stimulant drugs are methylphenidate (Ritalin) as well as adderall and dexedrine.
They can be consumed in capsules, pills, or tablets. They are usually taken in the morning and released into the bloodstream within several hours.
There are two kinds of stimulants: long-acting and short-acting stimulants. Both are available in generic forms and can be used safely and effectively to treat ADHD.
A lot of children and adults like the more powerful stimulants. However they can be costly and may have a longer-lasting adverse effect. This type of medication should be used only once daily.
Children and adults who use stimulants are at greater risk of developing heart disease. They need to be checked regularly for changes in their heart rate and blood pressure. If adhd medication uk adults develops, your doctor can change the dosage or stop taking the medication.
The adverse effects of stimulant medications can be varied however, the majority are moderate and fade over time. While nausea and vomiting are common adverse effects of stimulant drugs however, it is not a common occurrence. Some suffer a slight increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
These effects are usually for only a few hours, and can be managed by adjusting the medication's dosage or schedule. Certain medicines may cause mild or no side effects at all however, others can trigger serious adverse effects that require hospitalization.
When your doctor prescribes medication for your child she will consider his weight and age, as well as any other factors that can influence the effectiveness of the medicine. She may also alter the amount of the medicine your child is prescribed to get the best results.
These can be seizures and low blood pressure. It is important to immediately notify your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms.
Other side effects that could occur are less serious like sleep problems or irritability and an increase in appetite. Certain medications may cause tics, which are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds such as eye blinking or throat clearing.
Tics are common among children with ADHD and can make it hard to concentrate. Parents must be aware that tics can be extremely frustrating and scary.
Discuss with your doctor If you suspect that your child is developing tic. You might be able to receive a medication that has no negative side effects.
The first medications that are prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are the methylphenidate (Elvanse) and lisdexamfetamine, (Elvanse). The medication should be taken slowly and the dosage adjusted periodically to ensure the most effective results for your child.
There are other medications that can assist in controlling ADHD like blood pressure medication and antidepressants. These drugs work by acting on the brain's dopamine and norepinephrine levels. They can be a great alternative when stimulant medications don't perform or cause too many side negative effects.