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.
Stimulants boost the activity in the brain, especially regions that play a role in regulating attention and behavior. They also help reduce the tendency to be impulsive. Other medications used to treat ADHD include atomoxetine as well as antidepressants like bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is an illness of the brain that can cause problems with attention to stimuli, impulse control, and sometimes hyperactivity. It affects both children and adults and can cause issues in work, school and in relationships.
While the reason for ADHD is not known however, it is believed that certain chemical changes in the brain might be the cause of the symptoms. These chemicals are referred to as neurotransmitters, and include dopamine and norepinephrine.
Drugs that relieve ADHD symptoms have the highest effectiveness at targeting these neurotransmitters. These medications could comprise the combination of stimulants and non-stimulants, or even a single medication.
Medication is typically used in conjunction with behavioral therapy which can help you alter your behaviors and gain new techniques. It is essential to get enough rest and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This can make ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less restless.
You can also help ADHD symptoms by avoiding caffeinated or sugary beverages, getting enough sleep, exercising, and maintaining good mental health. It is important to keep a positive attitude and to follow a strict schedule.
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD It's essential to keep the track of your symptoms and communicate them to your doctor. Your doctor will monitor your progress and make any necessary modifications to the treatment plan.
Combining medication, behavior therapy and skill training is the best treatment for ADHD. Multimodal treatment can be more effective than medications alone however it can take some time to identify the best combination.
ADHD stimulants are the most often prescribed. In the beginning they are typically taken in small doses once daily. Some people are more responsive to long-acting or extended release formulations that build gradually in the bloodstream, and take a long time to wear off. They reduce the rebound effect that occurs when symptoms return as the drug wears off.
In addition to stimulants doctors also prescribe a few other types of medication that affect the brain to improve focus and attention. These medications are known as nonstimulants. They are more difficult to use than stimulants , however they can be more efficient for ADHD patients.
attention medication to talk to your doctor about the possible side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child taking. Some of these adverse effects can be severe, like anxiety or depression. These adverse effects can be controlled by altering the dosage.
Other common side effects can be mild ones, like irritability and difficulties in concentrating. Keep a journal to track adverse effects and inform your doctor. The information you record can be shared with your family members as well as anyone else who may be able assist you.
It can be difficult to focus on tasks if you have difficulty focusing. You may forget to finish your homework or be late for important social occasions.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is stimulant medications. They are also the most commonly prescribed treatment for the treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD). They work by increasing levels of dopamine within your brain. This results in greater concentration, focus, motivation, and overall effectiveness.
These drugs can be used to lessen aggression, hyperactivity, and impulse control. The most popular stimulant medicines are methylphenidate, Adderall, or dexedrine.
They are available in capsules, pills, or tablets. They are usually taken in the morning, and are released into the bloodstream after some time.
There are two types of stimulants: short-acting and long-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 longer-acting stimulants. They can be costly and can trigger more side effects. This kind of medication is recommended only once daily.
Certain adults and children who consume stimulants are at an increased risk of developing heart issues. They should be checked regularly for any changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Your doctor can alter the dosage or even stop the medication if there is a problem.
The effects of stimulant drugs can be varied but they are generally moderate and fade over time. While nausea and vomiting are typical reactions of stimulant medications, this is very rare. Some suffer a slight increase in their blood pressure and heart rate.
These side effects typically last for several hours and can be managed by adjusting the medication's dose or schedule. Certain medicines can cause very little or no side effects however, others can trigger serious adverse effects 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 could influence the effectiveness of the medicine. She will also alter the amount of the medicine your child receives to ensure the most effective results.
Seizures are a common side effect. and low blood pressure. It is important to immediately notify your physician if you notice any of the symptoms.
Other side effects that may occur are less serious like sleep problems as well as irritability, insomnia, and an increase in appetite. Tics, which may be abrupt, repetitive movements, or sounds such as eye blinks and throat clearing, can also be caused by certain medications.
Tics are a common issue for ADHD children and can make it difficult to concentrate. Tics can be an incredibly frustrating and scary experience for parents, so it is important to be aware of them.
If you suspect that your child might be developing a tic disorder, talk to his doctor. You may be able to receive a medication that has no adverse side effects.
In the UK, methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are usually the first medications recommended to treat ADHD. The medication should be introduced slowly and the dosage adjusted periodically to ensure the most beneficial results for your child.
There are other medicines that can help control ADHD like blood pressure medication and antidepressants. These medications work by working on the brain's levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. These medications can be an effective alternative to stimulant medication which doesn't work or has too many side negative effects.