Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three types of UK-licensed ADHD medicines that contain the methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL or Equasym XL) and those that contain dexamfetamine.
Stimulants increase the activity within the brain, particularly regions that play a role in controlling attention and behavior. They also aid in reducing impulsivity. Other medications that treat ADHD include atomoxetine as well as antidepressants, such as bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a brain disorder that leads to problems with attention, impulse control and sometimes hyperactivity. It affects children as well as adults and can create issues in work, school and relationships.
The exact causes of ADHD are unclear but the disorder is believed to be related to chemical changes within the brain that cause the symptoms. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters, and include dopamine as well as norepinephrine.
Medications that reduce ADHD symptoms are the most effective in targeting these neurotransmitters. These medications can be a combination of stimulants and non-stimulants . They also might be a single drug.
Usually, medications are utilized in conjunction with behavioral therapy. This will help you develop new skills and change your behaviors. It is important to get enough rest and eat a nutritious, balanced diet.
Exercise can be beneficial to ADHD symptoms. It raises levels in the brain of norepinephrine, dopamine and may even lessen the severity of the symptoms. This can help people who suffers from ADHD feel less restless and more focused.
Other ways to aid in reducing symptoms of ADHD include abstaining from caffeinated and sugary drinks, getting enough sleep in addition to exercising and maintaining good mental health. It's also beneficial to maintain a positive attitude and stick to a regular routine.
If you or your child suffer from ADHD, it's important to keep an eye on your symptoms and notify your doctor. Your doctor will keep track of your progress with treatments and if necessary, make changes to the treatment plan.
The most effective treatment for ADHD is a combination of medication, behavioral therapy, and skill training. Multimodal therapy can be more effective than medications alone however it can take some time to find the best combination.
ADHD stimulants are the most often prescribed. They are typically taken once daily in small doses starting. Some people are more responsive 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 as the drug wears off.
In addition to stimulants doctors may also prescribe other types of medications which work in the brain to improve attention and focus. These medications are called nonstimulants. They take longer to work than stimulants , but they are more effective for ADHD patients.
Consult your physician about possible side effects of ADHD medication your child or you are taking. Some of these side effects may be serious, for instance, depression or agitation. These side effects can be alleviated by altering the dosage.
Other common side effects can be mild, such as irritability or difficulty in concentrating. Keep a diary to track side effects and inform your doctor. The information you record can be shared with family members as well as anyone else who might be able to help you.
If you struggle to focus on your work, it may be difficult to keep deadlines in school or at work. You might forget to do your homework or skip social or group events you had to attend.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is using stimulant medications. They are also the most commonly prescribed medication for attention deficit disorder (ADD). They work by increasing levels of dopamine within your brain. This increases focus, concentration and motivation, as well as overall effectiveness.
These drugs can also be used to reduce hyperactivity, aggression, and hyperactivity, aggression, and. The most popular stimulant medications are methylphenidate (Ritalin) Adderall, and dexedrine.
They can be taken as capsules, pills, or tablets. They are usually taken in the morning and then released into the bloodstream after some hours.
There are add medication adult of stimulants: short-acting and long-acting stimulants. Both are available in generic forms and can be used safely and effectively to treat ADHD.
A lot of children and adults like the longer-acting stimulants. However they can be costly and could have a longer-lasting adverse side effect. This type of medication should be used only for a single dose per day.
Certain adults and children who consume stimulants are at an increased risk of developing heart problems. You should be aware of any changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Your doctor may alter the dosage or discontinue the medication when there is a problem.
The side effects of stimulant medication can be diverse but the majority are minimal and disappear after a while. Some people experience nausea or vomiting when taking these drugs, but this is rare. Some people experience a slight increase in their blood pressure and heart rate.
The effects of these side effects typically last for about an hour and can be managed by adjusting the medication's dosage or schedule. Some medicines have minor or none at all, but others can cause serious adverse effects that require hospitalization.
Your doctor will take into consideration the weight of your child and their age when prescribing medication to your child. Your doctor will adjust the dosage of the medication that your child receives to ensure that you get the best outcomes.
Side effects can include seizures and low blood pressure. If you notice any of these signs make sure to contact your doctor right away.
Other side effects that may be experienced are not as serious, such as difficulty sleeping or irritability and an increase in appetite. Some medications can even cause tics which are sudden repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing.
Tics are a frequent problem for ADHD children and can make it difficult to concentrate. Tics can be a stressful and scary experience for parents, which is why it's important to be aware of them.
If you suspect that your child might be developing a tic, speak to his doctor. He may suggest that you consider a treatment which doesn't have the potential for this type of side effect.
In the UK, methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are typically the first medications recommended to treat ADHD. For the best results, the medication should be taken at a slow pace and dosages should be adjusted regularly.
Other medications can be used to treat ADHD, such as antidepressants and high blood pressure medication. These medications act by working on the brain's dopamine and norepinephrine levels. They can be an effective alternative when stimulant medications don't work or has excessive side negative effects.