ADHD UK Medication: 10 Things I'd Loved To Know Earlier
ADHD UK Medication
ADHD medications are 'controlled drugs' that require a specialist doctor to prescribe them. These stimulants include the methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta), the amphetamines salts and atomoxetine.
Talk therapy and other non-medical treatment is often recommended. While medications can help manage symptoms, they cannot change negative ways of coping.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed ADHD drug in the UK. It is also used to treat narcolepsy as well as several other psychiatric conditions. It is available in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. The extended-release version takes longer to dissolve and delivers long-lasting effects. It is usually prescribed for a short period of time and the exact dosage will depend on the patient's symptoms.
In general, stimulant medicines boost the activity of parts of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. They are often referred to as "cognitive enhancers" and help people to focus, pay attention and remain on task. Methylphenidate is a stimulant that increases activity in the regions of the brain that are inactive in people with ADHD. adhd medication names can also improve the efficiency of your body's energy usage. It is marketed as Ritalin.
A recent study has revealed that the UK has seen an eight-fold rise in the number of prescriptions for methylphenidate in the past two decades. This is an important health issue for the public and suggests that there could be overdiagnosis of ADHD in the UK. The researchers studied data from the Clinical Practice Research Database (CPRD) which provides details of all NHS patients who had a GP in England from 1992 to 2013. The study examined the use of drugs that are classified as CNS stimulants and approved for ADHD in the British National Formulary. This includes atomoxetine, methylphenidate (including immediate release methylphenidate as well as methylphenidate prolonged release), dexamphetamine and its derivative lisdexamfetamine aswell modafinil. Pemoline, which is not available in the UK due to liver toxicity was excluded from the study.
The researchers discovered that methylphenidate was the most common medication prescribed to children 5 and under, with almost 25% 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 exactly what happened. They suggest that parents instead consider psychotherapy.
The results suggest that the increase in methylphenidate prescriptions could be partly due to the availability and accessibility of mental health services. However, it could also reflect an increasing awareness of ADHD among younger people, as well as an increased willingness to seek treatment and diagnose. In addition, there are likely to be some cases of inappropriate prescribing of methylphenidate for adolescents and young adults.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine, a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibit (SNRI) is used to treat ADHD in adolescents and children. It can also be used to treat comorbid signs of anxiety. It isn't a stimulant, and has a low risk of abuse. It has been shown to be effective in clinical studies and is a viable option for children who have not had a positive response to stimulants. The long-term safety isn't known.
Atomoxetine acts differently in comparison to other ADHD medication. It raises the levels of a chemical in the brain called noradrenaline. This chemical is responsible for sending messages between nerve cells, and increasing its level can improve concentration and control of impulses. It comes in a capsule, and is taken one each day. The medication is usually taken in combination with other treatments, such as psychological therapy, educational support, and cognitive therapy for behavioural issues.
In one study, atomoxetine proved to be more effective at treating ADHD symptoms than a placebo. my response is well tolerated and has a lower side effect risk than stimulants particularly for children. In addition, a recent cost-effectiveness analysis revealed that treatment methods that included the use of atomoxetine are less expensive than those involving methylphenidate or dexamfetamine.
This drug has been linked with some serious side effects, such as suicidal thoughts. If your child experiences these symptoms, speak to a doctor right away. In addition, atomoxetine can interact with certain medicines, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like phenelzine. If your child is taking MAOIs stop the medication and consult your doctor to recommend a suitable alternative.
There are people who suffer from stomach pain, fatigue or a decrease in appetite. These side effects are usually moderate, but they can be severe in some cases. Atomoxetine is linked to an extremely rare but serious condition called hepatic dysfunction, which can cause liver failure. In some cases it could be fatal. It is therefore important to consult your doctor prior to taking this medicine if you have an history of liver problems or other health issues.
Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including herbal and complementary treatments. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, minerals and vitamins. It is crucial to let your doctor know that you are taking other medicines for ADHD like lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate. Tell your doctor if either you or your child is nursing, pregnant or considering becoming pregnant.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine is a stimulant which is used to treat ADHD in adults. It is able to improve concentration and attention, reduce the risk of impulsive behavior and boost mood. It is a drink or as a solution or capsule. It is essential to take it regularly and as recommended by your physician. If you take too much or stop taking abruptly could cause problems. You should not drive or operate machines if you take this medication. Also, you should not carry the medication without the prescription. Always have the proof that you were prescribed the medication. You should bring your medication to school or at work in case you require it during the day.
Dexamfetamine should be used with caution in epilepsy patients, as it can lower the threshold for convulsions. It should not be used in patients with an 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 nursing. It is excreted into breast milk and therefore there is a potential risk to the infant.
If the symptoms of ADHD become worse, a review by the doctor is recommended. This will help determine if the condition is controlled by medication and if the medications are appropriate. This will allow the doctor prescribing the medication to adjust dosages or switch treatments if necessary.
A doctor will start the patient on a low dose and gradually increase the dosage to make sure that they are receiving the correct dose of medication for them. It is also recommended to take the tablets at the same time each day, usually with food. This will make it easier to remember to take them and decrease the chances of not taking your doses.
Psychoeducation and therapy can be beneficial for those suffering from ADHD, in addition to medication. This can help children as well as adults to manage their condition. Therapy can help them deal with additional problems such as anxiety or depression. Psychoeducation is a mix of educational materials and the assistance of a qualified professional, whereas therapeutic therapies can be 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. Modafinil is available off-label by adults who are over 18 years old to treat symptoms of ADHD. However, it is not specifically approved for this use and should only be taken under a doctor's supervision. It is only available on a prescription, and should be stored in a secure location away from children. It is important to follow the directions on your prescription label and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any aspect of the medication you do not understand.
The NHS website describes Modafinil as a sleep-inducing central nervous system stimulant. Modafinil is prescribed for the treatment of narcolepsy but it has been extensively used to treat people suffering from Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and fatigue caused by sleep apnea/hypopnea, or shift work. It is also a popular choice for students, executives and military personnel who need to be alert.
A recent survey of UK students revealed that one in five have taken an "smart drug" to boost their focus during their examinations. Jack Rivlin, 24, editor of the student newspaper The Tab in Farringdon, London reported to BBC Newsbeat that he had bought modafinil on an offshore website for PS130 last term to aid him in his revision.
Although he claims to not believe that modafinil makes him smarter, he does admit that it has helped him to keep up with his class notes and pass the exam. These aren't miracle cures and may have severe 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. It may also interact with certain medications, such as antidepressants as well as sedatives. It's also possible to become dependent on the drug and suffer withdrawal symptoms if the drug is suddenly stopped.
Modafinil, along with methylphenidate and Atomoxetine, is classified as a class B drug. This means that it is illegal to distribute, possess, or sell. If you are arrested, you could face up to five-years in prison.