Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types UK-licensed ADHD medications: those that contain the methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL or Equasym XL) and those that contain dexamfetamine.
Stimulants stimulate brain activity, especially in areas that regulate attention and behaviour. They also aid in reducing 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 leads to problems with attention, impulse control and sometimes hyperactivity. It affects both children and adults and can cause many issues in work, school and relationships.
Although the root of ADHD is not known It is thought that chemical changes in the brain could be the reason for the symptoms. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters and include dopamine and norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters are the most effective targets for drugs that reduce ADHD symptoms. They could be mixed with stimulants and other non-stimulants, or may be a single medication.
Most often, medication is utilized in conjunction with behavioral therapy. This can help you gain new skills and modify your behaviors. It is crucial to get enough rest and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Exercise can help reduce some of the symptoms of ADHD because it increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This can make a person who suffers from ADHD feel less tired and more focused.
It is also possible to reduce ADHD symptoms by avoiding caffeine-rich or sugary beverages, getting enough sleep and exercising, as well as maintaining good mental health. It's also beneficial to have an optimistic mindset and adhere to a routine.
If you or your child suffer from ADHD It's essential to keep in mind your symptoms and report them to your doctor. Your doctor will keep track of your progress through treatment and if necessary, make changes to the treatment plan.
Combining behavior therapy, medication, skill training is the most effective treatment for ADHD. A multimodal approach can be more effective than just medications but it can require some time to identify the appropriate combination for your needs.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They are typically prescribed once every day in small doses to start with. Some people respond better to extended release or long-acting formulations that build slowly in the bloodstream, and take a long time to wear off. These reduce the rebound effect, which is when symptoms return once the drug wears off.
In addition to stimulants, doctors also prescribe different types of drugs which work in the brain to improve attention and focus. These medications are called non-stimulants. They take longer to begin working than stimulants, but they are more effective in those with ADHD.
Discuss with your doctor the side effects of ADHD medication your child or you are taking. Some of these side effects may be serious, for instance, depression or agitation. These side effects can be cured by altering the dosage.
Other common side effects may be mild effects, like irritability, or difficulties in concentrating. Keep a journal to track 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 assist you.
It is not easy to concentrate on your tasks if you experience difficulties in focusing. You may not remember to complete your homework or miss important social occasions.
Stimulants
Stimulant medicines have the longest history of treating ADHD and are the most commonly prescribed medication for the treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD). They increase brain dopamine levels. This results in a greater focus, concentration and motivation. It also increases overall effectiveness.
These drugs can be used to lessen hyperactivity, aggression, and impulse control. The most commonly used stimulant drugs are methylphenidate (Ritalin), adderall, and dexedrine.
They can be taken in capsules, pills, or tablets. They are usually taken early in the morning and then released into the bloodstream within several hours.
There are two types of stimulants: long-acting and short-acting stimulants. Both are available in generic formulations and are effective, safe treatment for ADHD.
Many children and adults prefer the stimulants that last longer. They can be expensive and can cause more side negative effects. This kind of medication should be administered only once daily.
Children and adults who are exposed to stimulants are at an increased risk of developing heart issues. It is important to monitor them for any changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Your doctor may alter the dosage or discontinue the medication when there is a concern.
The adverse effects of stimulant medications are a myriad of things, but most are minimal and disappear after a while. While nausea and vomiting are common adverse effects of stimulant drugs however, it is not a common occurrence. medication for adult add may experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
These side effects usually last for several hours and are easily controlled by adjusting the medication's dosage or schedule. While some medicines may have no side effects or mild side effects, other medications can cause serious side reactions that require hospitalization.
If your doctor prescribes a 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 medicine that your child takes to ensure that you get the best outcomes.
These can be seizures and low blood pressure. If you observe any of these symptoms make sure to contact your doctor right away.
Other side effects that may be experienced are not as serious like sleep problems, irritability, and increased appetite. Some medications can even cause tics which are sudden repeated movements or sounds, such as eye blinks or throat clearing.
Tics are very common in children who suffer from ADHD and can make it hard to concentrate. Tics can be a stressful and scary experience for parents, so it's important to be aware of these.
If you suspect that your child is developing a tic, speak to his doctor. It is possible to obtain a treatment that does not have side effects.
In the UK in the UK, methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are the first prescribed drugs to treat ADHD. The medication should be introduced slowly and the dosage should be adjusted regularly to ensure the most beneficial results for your child.
There are other medicines that can help control ADHD, including high blood pressure medications and antidepressants. These drugs affect the brain's norepinephrine and dopamine levels. They can be an effective alternative to stimulant medication if it doesn't work well or has too many adverse effects.