Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types UK-licensed ADHD medicines: those that contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL or Equasym XL) and those that contain dexamfetamine.
Stimulants can increase brain activity, particularly in areas that regulate attention and behaviour. They also help reduce the impulsivity. Other ADHD treatments include atomoxetine bupropion, as well as antidepressants like bupropion.
add in adults medication is ADHD?
ADHD is an illness of the brain that can cause problems with attention to impulse control, attention span, and sometimes hyperactivity. It can affect both adults and children. It can cause problems at work, school, and in relationships.
While the specific cause of ADHD is unknown however, it is believed that certain chemical changes in the brain may be the cause of the symptoms. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters. They include dopamine, as well as norepinephrine.
These neurotransmitters are among the most effective targets for drugs that can reduce ADHD symptoms. They can be an amalgamation of stimulants and non-stimulants , or they could be a single drug.
Medication is typically used in conjunction with behavioral therapy, which can help you alter your behaviors and learn new abilities. It's also important to get plenty of rest and eat a healthy and balanced diet.
Exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD, as it boosts levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. This can help ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less restless.
Other things that can aid in the treatment of ADHD include avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks, getting adequate sleep, exercising and maintaining a healthy and balanced mental health. It's also helpful to keep an optimistic mindset and adhere to a regular schedule.
It is crucial to be aware and keep track of and report ADHD symptoms to your doctor whether you or your child suffer from these symptoms. 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 a combination of medication, behavior therapy, and skill-building. Multimodal therapy can be more effective than medication on its own however it may take some time to identify the most effective combination.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They are typically taken one time every day in small doses to start with. Long-actingformulations, also known as extended-release, that build slowly in the bloodstream and break down slowly may be more effective for some people. These minimize the rebound effect, which is when symptoms return when the drug wears off.
Doctors might prescribe stimulants in addition to other medications which improve focus and concentration. These medications are known as nonstimulants. They are more difficult to use than stimulants , but they are more effective for ADHD patients.
Talk to your doctor about potential side effects from ADHD medication your child or you are taking. These side effects can lead to anxiety and depression. The dose adjustment can reduce these problems.
Other side effects that are common may be mild symptoms, like irritability or difficulty in concentrating. Keep a record of adverse effects and inform your doctor. This information can be shared with your family members as well as anyone else who may be able to help you.
If you have trouble focusing on your tasks, it could be difficult to complete your assignments at school or in the workplace. You may forget to complete your homework or fail to attend social events or meetings that you had to attend.
Stimulants
Stimulant medications have the longest track record in treating ADHD and are the most frequently prescribed medication for people suffering from 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 impulsivity, hyperactivity, and aggression. The most popular stimulant medications include methylphenidate (also known as adderall), or dexedrine.
They can be taken in the form of capsules, pills or tablets. They are usually taken in the morning, and are released into the bloodstream over several hours.
There are two kinds of stimulants: short-acting and long-acting. Both are available in generic forms and can be used safely and effectively to treat ADHD.
Adults and children alike prefer longer-acting stimulants that are longer-acting. They can be expensive and could cause more adverse negative effects. If you opt for this kind be sure to adhere to the prescriptions of your doctor and take only one dose a day.
Adults and children who use stimulants are at a higher risk of developing heart disease. They should be checked regularly for changes in blood pressure and heart rate. If a problem develops your doctor can alter the dosage or cease taking the medication altogether.
The stimulant medication can cause a variety of adverse effects however, the majority of them are mild and go away over time. Although nausea and vomiting are common side effects of stimulant medications but this is extremely rare. Some suffer a slight increase in blood pressure and heart rate.
These side effects usually last for a few hours and are easily controlled by adjusting the medication's dose or schedule. While some medications may have minimal or no side effects, other medications can cause serious reactions and require hospitalization.
When your doctor prescribes a medication for your child she will take into account his weight as well as age and other factors that could affect the effectiveness of the medicine. She will also adjust the dose of medicine your child is taking to achieve the best results.
Some 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 occur are less severe and include sleep issues, irritability, and increased appetite. Tics, which may be rapid, repetitive movements or sounds, such as eye blinks or throat clearing may also be caused by certain medications.
Tics are very common in children with ADHD and can make it difficult to concentrate. Parents should be aware that Tics can be extremely frustrating and scary.
If you think your child might be developing a tic, talk to his doctor. He might suggest that you consider a medication which doesn't have the potential for this kind of side effect.
In the UK The UK, methylphenidate, and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are the first drugs recommended to treat ADHD. The medication should be introduced slowly and the dosage adjusted periodically to get the most beneficial results for your child.
Other medications can be used to treat ADHD for example, antidepressants and blood pressure medication. These medications affect the brain's Norepinephrine and dopamine levels. They can be an effective alternative to stimulant medication if it doesn't perform or cause excessive side effects.