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ADHD Medication in the UK The medications for ADHD help to reduce symptoms by increasing the activity of certain regions of the brain. They also boost the production of neurotransmitters which are insufficient in people with ADHD. In the UK, stimulant medications are the most frequently prescribed medication for adult ADHD. They help by increasing the activity of the brain in areas involved in the regulation of impulses and attention. Stimulants There are two kinds of drugs that are licensed in the UK to treat adult ADHD stimulants and non-stimulant medicines. Stimulants are usually used as the first choice because they increase activity in the areas of the brain that control attention and behavior. They include methylphenidate (often referred to as Ritalin) and the lisdexamfetamine (brand names that include Vyvanse). They are available several times a day in a tablet with a short-acting mechanism or taken every day in a long-acting tablet which is released into the bloodstream throughout the course of a day. The dose of the medication might need to be changed regularly in the early days as it is monitored and adjusted (titrated) to find the dosage that is effective for you. Stimulants have a long tradition of use, both medically and as recreational drugs. In the 1930s, amphetamines was frequently used by truck drivers, students and athletes to boost their energy levels. Amphetamines can be dangerous and be misused. They are often abused because they can make people feel good and can stimulate the mind in ways that can lead to addiction. The most frequent side effects of stimulants are loss of appetite, trouble sleeping and issues with stomach or digestive system. These issues can be addressed by altering the dosage or timing. The majority of adults are tolerant. However, children can experience more significant side-effects, like anxiety, weight loss and irritability. Non-stimulant ADHD medications function differently than stimulants and can take a while to see them begin to work. Clonidine and Guanfacine are known as Catapres and Intuniv are alpha agonists. They work by stimulating receptors in the mind to improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and behavioral issues such tics and aggression. They can be used in addition to ADHD stimulant medication or used on their own by children aged between 6 and 17. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera is a non-stimulant medication that enhances concentration and impulse control by increasing levels of noradrenaline in the brain. It can be prescribed as its own, but is most often used in conjunction with guanfacine for children. These medications are less likely to trigger the same side effects as stimulants, however they can cause a variety of them such as headaches and difficulty sleeping. Atomoxetine Some children are not responsive to stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin. For these kids medications known as nonstimulants are a possibility. They improve the signaling between nerves and regions of the brain, assisting children focus more easily and reducing the impulsivity. Nonstimulant ADHD medicines use different active ingredients from stimulants and do not have the potential to be abused, so they aren't controlled substances. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera, is a non-stimulant medicine that can be used to treat ADHD in children, adults and teens. It is an antidepressant which has been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing the quantity of a chemical called noradrenaline within the brain. Noradrenaline is an ingredient that transmits messages between brain cells. It also plays a role in motivation, impulsivity and attention. Atomoxetine due to its unique mechanism of effect is not associated with the same side effects as other antidepressants such as Wellbutrin or Effexor. It can be prescribed to children as young as 5 years old. It is taken either once or twice daily in tablet form. Atomoxetine offers a stable, 24 hour control over ADHD symptoms. It can reduce the severity of problems at night, when stimulants have worn off. The FDA has also approved guanfacine XR as well as clonidine XR, both of which are available as non-stimulant ADHD medication. These are typically prescribed to kids who haven't responded to stimulant medications or who have issues with their side effects. They can be used alone or in conjunction with stimulants, such as Adderall XR (amphetamine salts) to offer a more effective treatment of ADHD. Follow your doctor's instructions If you or your child is being treated with a nonstimulant ADHD medicine. They will probably suggest starting off with low doses, and gradually increasing the dosage. They will also ask about any other medications you or your child is taking to make sure there are no interactions. You'll need to schedule regular appointments with your GP and let them know if you experience any adverse reactions or have concerns. They may alter your dosage or suggest alternative treatments like talk therapy. Unlicensed Medication The treatment for ADHD in adults is a mix of stimulant and non-stimulant drugs. Psychiatrists may also prescribe medicines which are 'off-label' for the condition (these are medications that are licensed for different conditions, but are showing evidence of effectiveness in adult ADHD). These are usually antidepressants such as Venflaxine or bupropion. They have demonstrated some benefit for the condition, and are tolerated at smaller doses. Sometimes, unlicensed medicines are prescribed to patients when there is a medical need that is so specific that the prescription cannot be met by a licensed alternative. This is the case for patients whose regular medication is temporarily unavailable because of supply disruptions, and patients who require the use of a liquid version of a licensed tablet or capsule due to intolerance or allergy. Unlicensed medicines are often described as “specials”. This term can also be used to refer to medicines that are “off-label” or have been prepared or provided in a manner not covered by the license. These might include crushing tablets to make them easier to swallow or adding a liquid to an approved capsule or tablet to create a mix for administration by injection, or using a syringe pump in order to administer the medication subcutaneously (under the skin). Healthcare professionals generally utilize unlicensed medicines as a last option and when they believe there is no alternative that is licensed. They will carefully consider a wide variety of options to meet the needs of each patient. They will also review the results and treatment regularly considering clinical experience as well as the availability of new licensed treatments. It is important that any medicine that is not licensed to treat a patient is safe and effective and the reason for prescribing it is documented in the patient's records. Note any adverse reactions that a patient might experience from an off-label medication by using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. This information will be used to amend the medicine's MHRA marketing authorisation and also to ensure that future prescriptions of the drug are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A talk therapist works with you to help identify your issues and find ways to manage. They can also give you guidance and assistance on how to change your ways of thinking and acting in order to feel more positive. It is essential to complete the recommended number of sessions in order to make you feel better. Medications help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the quantity of neurotransmitters that your brain produces. These are chemicals that allow your neurons to pass on messages, and assist you in focusing your mind and avoid distractions. There are two types of medication used to treat ADHD which are stimulants and non-stimulants. They all increase the quantity of neurotransmitters that are available in your brain. There are a number of medicines licensed in the UK to treat ADHD. The most common medication is methylphenidate. It is available in immediate-release tablets that are taken in small doses 2 to 3 times per day. Also, as modified-release tablets, which are taken once a week but released throughout the course of the day. These aren't the cure for ADHD but they can make it easier to focus and control the impulsive behavior. They are generally tolerated well, but your specialist will monitor you closely to ensure you get the right dose and are not experiencing any side consequences. It could take a few weeks to get the medication to its maximum level. It is also possible to adjust your dosage (change your dose on a regular basis) to determine what is most effective. Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine, which is available on prescription only, can be more effective than stimulants and don't have the same potential for addiction. They are more effective, but not as well tolerated. iampsychiatry.uk may experience problems with memory, appetite or sleep. Your specialist will monitor you progress and determine whether to continue using atomoxetine or switch to another treatment. People suffering from ADHD are unable to find permanent solutions with therapy or medication. However, they can improve your ability to cope with your symptoms and live a fulfilling life. You can get the most out of your treatment by combining medication with regular sessions with your therapist as this will give you the chance to develop strategies for coping and recognize unhelpful patterns in your behavior and thinking. Certain people's improved mood and self-confidence may last for a long time after their treatment.