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ADHD Medication in the UK The drugs for ADHD reduce symptoms by enhancing the activity of the brain in certain areas. They also stimulate the production of neurotransmitters that are deficient in people with ADHD. Stimulant medications are the most frequently prescribed medication for adult ADHD in the UK. They help by increasing brain activity in areas that are involved in the regulation of impulses and attention. Stimulants In the UK There are two kinds of medications that are approved for adult ADHD treatment: stimulants and nonstimulant medications. Stimulants are often offered as the first option due to their ability to increase activity in the areas of the brain that to regulate attention and behaviour. These include methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin) and Lisdexamfetamine (brand names that include Vyvanse). These tablets can be taken multiple times a day as a short-acting tablet or once a week in the form of an extended-acting pill that is released into the bloodstream throughout the day. At first, the dose of the medication might require adjustment and monitored (titrated), to find the dosage that is most effective for you. Stimulants are used both as recreational and medical drugs. In the 1930s truck drivers, students and athletes used amphetamines in order to boost their energy. Amphetamines can be extremely dangerous and have a high chance of abuse. They are used to make people feel happy and stimulate the brain in ways that lead to addiction. The loss of appetite, the difficulty sleeping and problems with the stomach or digestive system are some of the most frequent negative effects of stimulants. Adjustments in the dosage or frequency of the medication often can alleviate these problems. They are generally tolerated by the majority of adults. However, children may suffer more serious side effects, such as the loss of weight, tics and irritability. Non-stimulant ADHD medications function differently than stimulants, and it may take some time to see them begin to work. Clonidine and guanfacine (brand names Catapres and Intuniv) are both alpha agonists which work by stimulating specific receptors in the brain to improve concentration, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity, as well as reduce behavioural issues like aggression and tics. They can be used as a supplement to ADHD stimulant medications or taken alone by children aged 6-17. Atomoxetine also referred to as Strattera, is a non-stimulant drug that enhances the ability to control impulses and concentration by increasing the levels of noradrenaline in the brain. It is available as a standalone medication but is most often combined with guanfacine in children. These drugs do not have the same adverse effects as stimulants but can cause headaches and difficulty sleeping. Atomoxetine Certain children aren't able to respond to stimulant medications such as Adderall and Ritalin. Nonstimulants are a possibility for children with ADHD. They improve the signaling between nerves and regions of the brain, helping children to concentrate better and manage the impulsivity. Non-stimulant ADHD medicines contain different active ingredients to stimulants and do not have the potential for abuse, so they aren't controlled substances. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is one of the latest non-stimulant drugs that treat ADHD in adults, children and teenagers. It's an antidepressant that's been shown to reduce symptoms of ADHD by increasing the amount of a chemical present in the brain that is known as noradrenaline. Noradrenaline transmits messages between brain cells and is involved in attention, impulsivity and motivation. Due to its unique mechanism of action, atomoxetine doesn't have the same negative side effects that other antidepressants do, such as Wellbutrin and Effexor. It can be prescribed for children as young as 5 and is taken orally, every day, either once or twice in tablet form. Atomoxetine gives you a steady, 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms. It can help reduce the effects at night when stimulants have worn off. Both clonidine and guanfacine are available as non-stimulant ADHD medication. These are typically prescribed to kids who haven't responded to stimulant medications or who have trouble with their side effects. They can be used in conjunction with stimulants, such as Adderall XR, (amphetamines salts) to treat ADHD more effectively. If you or your child is being treated with a non-stimulant ADHD medication, ensure that you follow your GP's directions carefully. They will probably suggest starting off with low doses, then gradually increasing them. They will also ask about any other medications you or your child are taking to make sure there are no interactions. You'll need to attend regular appointments and let your GP know if you have any concerns or side effects from the medication. They may change the dosage, or suggest alternative treatments, such as talk therapy. Unlicensed Medication Adult ADHD is treated with a variety of stimulant and anti-stimulant medications. Psychologists may also prescribe drugs that are off-label for the condition (these are medications that are approved for other conditions, but are showing evidence of effectiveness in adults with ADHD). These medications are typically antidepressants like bupropion or Venflaxine. They have been shown to provide some benefits in the condition, and are tolerated at smaller doses. Unlicensed medicines may be prescribed to a patient if there is a real medical need that is not fulfilled by a licensed medication. Patients whose usual medication has been temporarily stopped because of a disruption in supply, or those who require a liquid version of a licensed tablet or capsule for reasons like intolerance or allergies can all be affected. Unlicensed medications are usually referred to as'specials', however, this can also apply to medicines which are 'off-label', or that are prepared or sold in a manner that is not covered under the medicine's licence. They could include crushing tablets to make them easier to swallow or adding liquid to an approved capsule or tablet to form a mixture for administration by injection, or using a syringe to administer medication subcutaneously (under the skin). Healthcare professionals generally use unlicensed medications as a last resort when they feel there is no alternative that is licensed. They will carefully weigh a variety of options to meet the specific requirements of every patient. They will also evaluate treatment and outcomes regularly considering both clinical experience and the availability of new treatments that are licensed. It is crucial that any medicine not licensed to treat patients is safe and effective, and the reason for prescribing it should be recorded in the patient's records. Report any side effects that a patient might experience from an off-label medication by using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. This information will be used by the MHRA to amend the marketing authorization of the medicine and ensure future prescriptions are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A talk therapist will work with you to understand the symptoms you are experiencing and help discover ways to manage them. They will also provide guidance and assistance on how to change your way of thinking and acting to feel more positive. It is essential to complete the amount of sessions your therapist suggests as this will be key in your feeling better. add medication adult of neurotransmitters in your brain can reduce ADHD symptoms. These chemicals help your neurons pass on messages, helping you focus your mind and stay clear of distractions. There are two major kinds of medications used to treat ADHD that are stimulants and non-stimulants. They work in different ways, however they all increase the amount of neurotransmitters in your brain. There are several medications licenced in the UK to treat ADHD. The most popular medication is methylphenidate. It is available in immediate-release tablets, which are taken in small doses 2 to 3 times per day. Or as modified-release tablets, which are taken every week but released throughout the time of the day. These medications aren't the cure for ADHD however they can help to concentrate and control the impulsive behavior. They are generally well-tolerated, but your specialist will monitor you closely to ensure you receive the right dose and are not experiencing any adverse effects. It can take several weeks before the medication reaches its maximum level. It is also possible to adjust your dosage (change your dose on a regular basis) to determine the best dosage. Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine (available only by prescription) are more efficient and have less potential for addiction than stimulants. They have a stronger evidence base but they are not as well-tolerated and some people have issues with memory, appetite or sleep. Your specialist will monitor your progress and discuss whether you should continue taking the atomoxetine drug or switch to a different treatment. People suffering from ADHD cannot find permanent solutions through treatment or medication. They can help you deal with your symptoms, and live a fulfilling lifestyle. You will make the most of your treatment by combining treatments with regular visits to your therapist, as this will give you a chance to learn strategies for coping and recognize unhelpful patterns in your behaviour and thinking. For some, their improved mood and confidence can even last beyond the end of their treatment.