ADHD UK Medication
ADHD medications are controlled drugs and require prescription from a specialist clinician. These stimulants include the methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines salts, and the atomoxetine.
Talk therapy and other non-medical treatment is generally recommended as well. The use of medication can ease symptoms but they don't change longstanding negative coping mechanisms.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed ADHD medication in the UK. It is also used to treat narcolepsy and various other psychiatric issues. It comes in both immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. The extended-release capsules are less soluble and last longer. It is usually prescribed for a short period of time and the dosage will depend on the patient's symptoms.
In general, stimulant medications boost brain activity in the regions that regulate attention and behavior. They are sometimes referred to as "cognitive enhancements" and assist people to pay attention, concentrate and remain focused. Methylphenidate increases activity in areas of the brain that are underactive for ADHD patients. It also functions as a central nervous system stimulant that can improve the way your body utilizes energy. More suggestions is sold as Ritalin.
A recent study has revealed that the number of prescriptions for methylphenidate has increased eightfold in UK in the last two decades. This is a major public health concern and suggests that there may be a misdiagnosis of ADHD in the UK. Researchers looked at data from the Clinical Practice Research Database (CPRD), which contains details of all NHS patients who had a GP in England from 1992 until 2013. The study focused on the use of drugs classified as CNS stimulants and approved for ADHD in the British National Formulary. This includes methylphenidate (methylphenidate immediate-release and methylphenidate extended release), atomoxetine, dexamphetamine (and its derivative lisdexamfetamine) and modafinil. Pemoline is no more licensed in the UK because of liver toxicity and was therefore excluded from the study.
The study found that methylphenidate was the most commonly prescribed drug prescribed in children aged 5 and under, with more than a quarter of children being prescribed it. Despite the fact that National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NIHCE) guidelines recommend medication only as a first-line treatment for children with severe ADHD symptoms, this is what occurred. Alternatively, they recommend that parents consider psychological interventions instead.
The results suggest that the rise in prescriptions for methylphenidate could be partially due to the availability of mental health services, however, it could also be due to the growing recognition of ADHD in younger people and a growing willingness to seek treatment and diagnosis. There are also likely to be cases of inappropriate prescribing methylphenidate for adolescents and young adults.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline receptor inhibitor (SNRI) used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents. It can also be used to treat comorbid symptoms of anxiety. It is not a stimulant, and it has a low risk of abuse. It has been shown to be effective in clinical trials and is an alternative for children who have not been able to respond to stimulants. The long-term safety isn't known.
Atomoxetine is different from other ADHD medications. It increases the quantity of a chemical called noradrenaline in the brain. This chemical is responsible for sending messages between nerve cells, and increasing its level can improve concentration and control impulses. It is available in capsule form and is taken a single time per day. The medication is usually used in conjunction with other treatments, such as psychotherapy, cognitive therapy and educational support.
In one study, atomoxetine was found to be more effective at treating ADHD symptoms than placebo. It is well-tolerated and has a lower risk of side risk than stimulants, particularly for children. A recent cost-effectiveness study showed that treatment algorithms that used atomoxetine as the initial drug were less expensive than those utilizing dexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
This medication has been linked to some serious side effects, like suicidal thoughts. Consult your physician immediately if your child displays these signs. Additionally, atomoxetine may interact with certain medications such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like phenelzine. If your child is taking MAOIs ask your doctor for an alternative.
There are people who experience fatigue, stomach pain or a loss of appetite. These side effects can be severe or mild, depending on the person. Atomoxetine has been linked with a rare but serious condition called hepatic impairment, which can cause liver failure. In some cases it could be fatal. Therefore, it is important to consult with your physician prior to taking this medication if you have a history of liver problems or other health issues.
It is essential to inform your doctor about all medications you take, including herbal and complementary therapies. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines including vitamins and minerals. It is important to tell your doctor if taking any other ADHD medication, like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine. You should also tell your doctor that you or your child are nursing, pregnant, or are thinking of becoming pregnant.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine is a stimulant which is used to treat ADHD in adults. It can improve concentration and focus, decrease the impulsive behavior, and improve mood. It is available in a capsule, a solution or in a pill. It is essential to use it regularly and as recommended by your physician. Stopping too often or taking abruptly could cause problems. It is not recommended to operate machinery or drive if you take this medication. Also, don't carry the medication around without having a prescription. Always keep the proof that you have been prescribed it. You should bring your medication to school or work in case you need it during the day.
Dexamfetamine must be used with caution in epilepsy patients, since it can decrease the threshold for convulsions. It should not be used in patients with a history of blood vessel or cardiac disorders such as coronary heart disease or high blood pressure. It is not recommended to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It is excreted into breast milk, which means it could pose a threat to the baby.
If symptoms of ADHD get worse, a consultation with the prescriber is advised. This can help determine if the problem is controlled through medication and if the medication is appropriate. This will allow the doctor prescribing the medication to modify dosages or change treatments as needed.
A doctor will begin the patient with a low dose, and gradually increase the dosage to make sure that they are receiving the correct level of medication for them. It is recommended for you to take your tablets at the same time each day, ideally along with food. This will help you remember when to take them, and will decrease the chances of not taking your doses.
In addition to taking medication, those who suffer from ADHD may benefit from psychoeducation and therapy. This can help children and adults to manage their condition. Therapy can also help them deal with additional issues, such as depression or anxiety. Psychoeducation is a mix of educational materials and professional assistance Therapy can be either behavioural or cognitive.
Modafinil
Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting prescription drug that reduces extreme sleepiness that accompanies conditions such as narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and shift work sleep disorder. It is also used off-label to treat symptoms of ADHD for adults who are 18 years old or older. It is not approved for such usage and should be taken only under the supervision of a physician. It can only be purchased with a prescription and should be stored in a secure location away from children. It is important to adhere to the directions on your prescription label and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any part of the medication you don't understand.
The NHS website describes Modafinil as a sleep-inducing central nervous system stimulant. Modafinil is prescribed to treat narcolepsy but it has been extensively used by people suffering from Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and fatigue triggered by sleep apnea/hypopnea, or shift work. Executives, students, and military personnel who must be alert are also common users.
A recent survey of UK students revealed that one in five students have taken a "smart drug" to boost their concentration during exams. Jack Rivlin (24), editor of The Tab, a student newspaper based in Farringdon, London told BBC Newsbeat that he purchased modafinil at PS130 on an offshore site last term to aid him in his revision.
Modafinil, he says, has helped him stay on top of his notes and help him pass his test, even though he claims he does not believe that it will make him more intelligent. It's important to remember that these drugs aren't magic bullets and they can have serious side effects.
In addition to its wakefulness-promoting effects, modafinil can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems in some patients, especially those with heart disease. Modafinil can also interfere with certain medications, such as antidepressants and sedatives. It's also possible to become dependent on the medication and experience withdrawal symptoms if the drug is suddenly stopped.
Modafinil, like methylphenidate or atomoxetine, is categorized as a class B substance. This means that it is illegal to distribute, possess or sell. If you are caught, you could be sentenced to up to five years in prison.