Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types of licensed ADHD medicine in the UK - those that contain methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL, Equasym XL) or dexamfetamine (eg Elvanse).
Stimulants work by increasing activity in the brain, especially areas that are involved in regulating attention and behavior. They can also reduce the tendency to be impulsive. Other medications used to treat ADHD include atomoxetine as well as antidepressants such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is an illness of the brain that can cause issues with attention to stimuli, impulse control, and sometimes hyperactivity. It can affect both children and adults, and can cause problems at work, school and in relationships.
Although the exact cause of ADHD is not known however, it is believed that certain chemical changes in the brain could be responsible for the symptoms. These chemicals are referred to as neurotransmitters, and include dopamine as well as norepinephrine.
Treatments that lessen ADHD symptoms have the highest effectiveness at targeting these neurotransmitters. They could be a combination of stimulants and non-stimulants or they might be a single drug.
The majority of medications are used in conjunction with behavioral therapy which can help you modify your behaviors and gain new abilities. It is essential to get enough sleep and eat a healthy, balanced diet.
Exercise can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. It increases brain levels of norepinephrine, dopamine and may reduce the severity of the symptoms. This can make ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less anxious.
Other things that can aid in reducing symptoms of ADHD include the avoidance of caffeinated drinks and sugary drinks, sleeping enough as well as exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy and balanced mental health. It's also beneficial to maintain an optimistic mindset and adhere to a regular routine.
If you or your child have ADHD it is essential to keep an eye on your symptoms and report them to your doctor. Your doctor will track your development and make any needed changes to your treatment plan.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is a combination of medication, behavior therapy, and training for skills. Multimodal treatment can be more effective than just medication however it can require some time to find the best combination.
Stimulants are the most frequently prescribed medications for ADHD. For the first time it, they're usually taken in small doses once daily. Certain people are more responsive to extended release or long-acting formulations that slowly build up in the bloodstream and take a long time to wear off. These can reduce the effect of rebound, which is when symptoms return when the drug wears off.
In addition to stimulants doctors also prescribe other types of medications that affect the brain to increase focus and concentration. These medications are called nonstimulants. They take longer to work than stimulants , but they are more effective for ADHD patients.
It's important to talk to your doctor about any side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child is taking. These side effects can lead to anxiety and depression. These symptoms can be reduced by adjusting the dose.
Other side effects that are common can be minor symptoms, like irritability or difficulties in concentrating. Keep a diary to track the effects of your medication and notify your doctor. You can also give this information to your family members or anyone else who might be able to assist you.
It isn't easy to concentrate on tasks if you have difficulty staying focused. You might forget to complete your homework or miss important social events.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is stimulant medications. They are also the most frequently prescribed medication for the treatment of attention deficit disorder (ADD). They increase the levels of brain dopamine. This leads to an increase in focus, concentration, and motivation.
These medications can be used to decrease hyperactivity, aggression and impulsivity. The most well-known stimulant drugs are methylphenidate (Ritalin) as well as adderall and dexedrine.
They can be consumed in capsules tablets, pills, or capsules. They are usually 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 formulations and are a effective, safe treatment for ADHD.
Many adults and children like the more powerful stimulants. They can be expensive and can cause more side consequences. This type of medication is recommended only for a single dose per day.
Some children and adults who take stimulants have an increased risk of developing heart issues. They need to be checked regularly for any changes in heart rate and blood pressure. If there is a problem, your doctor can change the dosage or even stop taking the medication.
The stimulant medication can cause a number of adverse reactions but the majority are mild and fade over time. Some people have nausea or vomiting after taking these medications, but this is not common. Others may experience a slight increase of their heart rate and blood pressure.
These side effects usually last only a few hours and can be managed by making adjustments to the medication's schedule or dosage. While some medications may have no side effects or mild side effects, other medications can cause serious side reactions that require hospitalization.
When your doctor prescribes medication for your child she will consider his weight as well as age and other factors that might influence the effectiveness of the medication. She will also adjust the dosage of the medication your child takes to get the most effective results.
Certain of the side effects could be serious, such as seizures or low blood pressure. If you observe any of these symptoms contact your doctor immediately.
Other side effects are not as severe and could include issues sleeping, irritability, and increased appetite. Tics, that are frequent, rapid movements or sounds, such as the sound of a throat clearing or eye blinking can also be caused by some medications.
Tics are very common in children with ADHD and can make it difficult to concentrate. Tics can be an incredibly frustrating and terrifying experience for parents, which is why it's essential to be aware of these.
Speak to your doctor If you suspect that your child is developing tic. You might be able find a medication that doesn't cause adverse side effects.
In the UK in the UK, methylphenidate and Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are usually the first medications recommended to treat ADHD. To achieve the most effective results, the medication must be taken at a slow pace and dosages should be adjusted frequently.
Other medications can be used to treat ADHD for example, antidepressants or high blood pressure medication. medication for autism and adhd alter the brain's norepinephrine and dopamine levels. They can be an effective alternative when stimulant medications don't perform or cause too many side consequences.