ADHD Medication in the UK
A psychiatrist will prescribe ADHD medication to adults if they have been diagnosed. The NHS is currently experiencing an insufficient supply of central nervous system stimulants, such as ADHD medications.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing problems and a rising global demand. It's expected to be resolved between October and December 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name of amphétamine salts. It's a potent stimulant that, when taken correctly, helps people with ADHD concentrate, stay on task and control their impulses. It is prescribed to treat ADHD, and also narcolepsy.
It was the first medicine to be approved by the FDA to treat both conditions. It's a central nervous system stimulant that increases the quantity of norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters in the brain. These chemicals increase concentration and alertness for people who suffer from narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to people with ADHD in tablets or liquid. Adderall is a medication that can be taken regularly or as required to alleviate symptoms. Adderall users may be afflicted with side effects, such as headaches, dry mouth, and stomach upset. Some people can develop a tolerance to the medication and will need to take more than their doctor prescribes in order to achieve the same results.
Adderall is not recommended for people with certain heart conditions. They can cause anxiety and increase heart rate, which is risky for people with heart disease or heart issues. Before taking Adderall, those who suffer from glaucoma, liver or kidney issues should consult their doctor. Adderall can also cause birth defects in babies born to women who have taken it during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown that the drug may cause birth defects in the pregnant fetus. However, there is not enough information to determine how it will affect the foetus.
The effects of stimulants can slow growth in children but the effect isn't significant and the majority of children catch up when they reach adulthood. adhd medications for adults can also cause psychosis which is a mixture of hallucinations and delusions.
Adderall is a Schedule II drug, meaning it is highly likely for abuse. People who don't have ADHD can abuse Adderall to feel more energetic and lose weight. Illegal users frequently mix it with cocaine to increase the effects. It is also a factor in drug tests for work or sports.
3. Concerto
Similar to Adderall and Vyvanse Concerta is an extended-release drug that is taken one time per day in the morning. It is believed that it works by increasing levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. This can improve concentration as well as other ADHD symptoms. It is essential to take this medication according to the dosage recommended by a doctor. Do not increase the dose without a doctor's permission and this could increase the risk of side effects. Store Concerta at room temperature and in a place that is safe of children.
Insomnia is another frequent side effect that can make it hard to fall asleep. It is recommended that you try to take it at the same time every day. You can track your medication using an alarm clock or pill reminder. This medication is in pregnancy category C. It is only recommended to use it if the benefits outweigh the risks for the baby's development. Long-term use of methylphenidate not recommended because it can lead to dependence.
This medication can also cause tics. These are unintentional, repeated actions or sounds. This can include eye blinking or head bobbing, as well as humming. Most people don't experience this, but If you do, talk to your doctor.
4. Focalin
Focalin can be used by both children and adults to treat attention deficit disorder. It is a drug that contains the active ingredient dexmethylphenidate. It is a stimulant for the central nervous system to reduce the risk of impulsivity and improve focus in those suffering from ADHD.
Like other stimulant medications, Focalin can help increase levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are responsible for the communication between nerve cells, and increase attention, vigilance and control of impulses. This makes them effective ADHD treatment medications. The dosage of Focalin varies depending on the age of the patient and can be either short or long acting. The immediate-release tablets are short-acting and extended-release tablets act longer.
Long-term use of Focalin may cause serious adverse effects. The drug has been linked to depression, particularly for those who aren't predisposed to it. The reason for this is that the medication causes neurotransmitters levels to stay high for a longer period of time. This is the reason Joanna Moncrieff, professor of psychotherapy at University College London has spent many years challenging what she believes is the over-prescription of stimulant medications to treat mental disorders.
Focalin can also cause psychomotor agitation or retardation in certain people. Some individuals may feel temporarily energized and euphoric. Focalin can also cause sleeplessness and sleepiness. Patients can also develop tolerance to the drug, and require higher and higher dosages to achieve the same effects. This can cause dependence and addiction.
To minimize the chance of Focalin addiction, doctors should regularly reassess their patients' risks and look for indicators and signs of misuse, abuse or addiction. They should advise patients to keep the medication in a safe place and not to distribute it to anyone else. They should also inform patients about the risks of accidental overdoses, and instruct them on how to dispose of any unused medicine.
Contrary to other ADHD medication, Focalin does not take effects immediately. The effects of the drug appear around two to three hours after taking it, and last for as long as four hours. adhd and medication is why it's often prescribed in conjunction with other non-medication therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy.