Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types of UK-licensed ADHD medications which contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL or Equasym XL) and those that contain dexamfetamine.
Stimulants work by increasing activity in the brain, specifically areas that are involved in controlling attention and behaviour. They can also reduce the tendency to be impulsive. Other medications used to treat ADHD include atomoxetine and antidepressants such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that can cause issues with attention as well as impulse control and hyperactivity. It can affect adults and children. It can cause problems at work, school and in relationships.
The exact causes of ADHD aren't clear however, the disorder appears to be related to certain chemical changes in the brain that trigger the symptoms. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters. They include dopamine and norepinephrine.
Treatments that lessen ADHD symptoms target these neurotransmitters. These drugs can be an amalgamation of stimulants and non-stimulants or they might be a single drug.
Usually, medications are utilized in conjunction with behavioral therapy. This can help you gain new skills and change your behavior. It's also important to get plenty of rest and eat a nutritious diet.
Exercise can alleviate some of the symptoms of ADHD because it increases levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This can make ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less restless.
Other things that can help with the symptoms of ADHD include avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks, getting adequate sleep as well as exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy and balanced mental health. It is important to maintain an optimistic mindset and adhere to a routine.
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD It is important to keep the track of your symptoms and communicate them to your doctor. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress through treatment and when necessary, make modifications to the plan.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is a combination of medication, behavior therapy, and training for skills. Multimodal treatment is more effective than medication alone, but it might require some time to find the best combination.
Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD. They are typically prescribed once a day in small doses starting. Some people respond better to long-acting or extended release formulations that build slowly in the bloodstream and take a long time to wear off. These reduce the rebound effect which occurs when symptoms return after the drug wears off.
In addition to stimulants doctors also prescribe other types of medication that work in the brain to improve focus and attention. These are referred to as non-stimulants. They take a bit longer to kick in than stimulants, but they are more effective for certain people suffering from ADHD.
It's essential to speak to your doctor about the side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child taking. These side effects can result in anxiety and depression. These side effects can be cured by altering the dosage.
Other side effects that are common can be minor ones, like irritability and trouble concentrating. Keeping a journal will help you keep track of your reactions and inform your doctor. This information can be shared with family members and anyone else who might be able to assist you.
It can be difficult to concentrate on tasks if you're having difficulties focus. You might not remember to complete your homework or fail to attend social events or meetings that you were required to attend.
Stimulants
Stimulant medications have the longest track record in treating ADHD and are the most frequently prescribed medication for attention deficit disorder (ADD). They work by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain. This leads to an increase in concentration, focus and motivation.
These drugs can also be used to reduce aggression, hyperactivity, and impulse control. The most popular stimulant medicines are methylphenidateand adderall or dexedrine.
They can be taken as capsules tablets, pills, or capsules. They are typically taken in the morning and are released into the bloodstream after several hours.
There are two types of stimulants: short-acting and long-acting. Both are available in generic forms and are safe and effectively to treat ADHD.
why not try this out and adults prefer the stimulants that last longer. However, they can be expensive and may cause a long-lasting side effect. If you choose this type make sure you follow your doctor's instructions and only take one dose a day.
Adults and children who are dependent on stimulants are at greater risk of developing heart disease. You should monitor them for any changes in heart rate or blood pressure. If a problem develops the doctor may alter the dosage or discontinue taking the medication altogether.
The effects of stimulant drugs can be diverse but they are generally relatively minor and go away over time. Some people have nausea or vomiting when taking these drugs, but this is extremely rare. Some people experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
These side effects typically last for a few hours and are easily controlled by adjusting the medication's dose or schedule. Certain medicines can cause mild or none at all however, others can trigger serious side effects that require hospitalization.
Your doctor will consider the weight of your child and their age when prescribing medication to your child. She will also adjust the dosage of the medicine your child receives to ensure the best results.
Seizures are a common side effect. and low blood pressure. You should contact your physician if you notice any of the symptoms.
Other side effects are less than serious, and may include difficulty sleeping, irritability, or an increase in appetite. Some medications can even cause tics which are sudden, repeated movements or sounds that resemble eye blinking or throat clearing.
Tics are very common in children with ADHD and can make it difficult for them to concentrate. Tics can be a traumatic and scary experience for parents, so it's important to be aware of them.
If you think your child is developing a tic disorder, talk with your doctor. You might be able get a medication with no side effects.
The first medications prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are methylphenidate (Elvanse) and lisdexamfetamine, (Elvanse). To get the best outcomes, the medication should be taken slowly and dosage should be adjusted frequently.
There are other drugs that can aid in the treatment of ADHD like blood pressure medication and antidepressants. These drugs work by acting on the brain's dopamine levels and norepinephrine levels. These drugs can be an effective alternative to stimulant medications in the event that it isn't effective or has too many negative side negative effects.