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ADHD Medication in the UK The medications for ADHD help to reduce symptoms by increasing brain activity in specific regions. They also boost the production of neurotransmitters which are absent in people suffering from ADHD. Stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed treatment for adults with ADHD in the UK. They work by increasing brain activity in areas involved in the regulation of impulses and attention. Stimulants There are two types of medications that are approved for use in the UK to treat adult ADHD stimulants and non-stimulant drugs. The stimulants are typically used as the first choice due to their ability to increase activity in areas of the brain that help regulate attention and behaviour. They include methylphenidate (often referred to as Ritalin) and the lisdexamfetamine (brand names including Vyvanse). They can be given frequently throughout the day in a tablet that acts as a short-acting one or taken once a day in a long-acting tablet which is released into the bloodstream throughout the course of a single day. The dosage of the medication could require frequent adjustments in the beginning, as it is adjusted and monitored (titrated) to determine the dosage that is effective for you. Stimulants have a long-standing history of use both medically and as recreational drugs. In the 1930s, truck drivers, students, and athletes used amphetamines in order to boost their energy. Amphetamines are extremely dangerous and have a high potential for abuse. They are abused as they can make people feel good and can stimulate the mind in ways that can lead them to addiction. Insomnia, difficulties sleeping, and problems with digestion or stomach are some of the most frequent side effects of stimulants. Adjustments to the dosage or frequency of the medication often reduce these problems. They are generally tolerated by most adults. However, children can have more severe side-effects like the loss of weight, tics and crankiness. Non-stimulant ADHD medication works differently from stimulants, and it may take a while for them to begin working. Clonidine and guanfacine (brand names Catapres and Intuniv) are both alpha agonists that work by stimulating specific receptors in the brain. This helps improve concentration, decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity, and reduce behavioural issues such as tics and aggression. They can be used as a complement to ADHD stimulant medications or taken alone by children between the ages of 6-17. Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) is another non-stimulant medication for ADHD that increases levels of the neurotransmitter Noradrenaline to improve impulse control and improve concentration. It is a medication that can be prescribed on by itself, but it is typically used in conjunction with guanfacine for children. These drugs do not have the same adverse negative effects as stimulants, but can cause headaches and insomnia. Atomoxetine Certain children aren't able to respond to stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin. Nonstimulants are available for these children. They boost signaling between nerves and regions of the brain, helping kids concentrate more easily and reducing impulsivity. Non-stimulant ADHD medicines contain different active ingredients from stimulants, and do not have the potential to be abused as they aren't controlled substances. Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, is a non-stimulant drug that can be used to treat ADHD among adults, children and teens. It is an antidepressant, and has been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing the quantity of a chemical called noradrenaline in the brain. Noradrenaline is a chemical that sends messages between brain cells. It also plays a role in motivation, impulsivity and attention. Due to its unique mechanism of action, atomoxetine does not suffer from the same adverse effects as other antidepressants like Wellbutrin and Effexor. It is available to children as young as 5 years old. It is taken once or twice daily in tablet form. Atomoxetine provides stable 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms. medication for adult add can help reduce the effects 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 medications. These are typically prescribed to children who haven't responded to stimulant medications or have trouble with their side effects. They can be administered by themselves or in conjunction with stimulants, like Adderall XR (amphetamine salts) to offer a more effective treatment of ADHD. If you or your child is being treated with an non-stimulant ADHD medication, ensure you follow your GP's directions carefully. They may suggest starting with lower doses, and then gradually increasing them. They'll also want to be aware of any other medications you or your child is taking to ensure that for interactions. You'll need to go for regular appointments and let your GP know if you're experiencing any concerns or side effects from the medication. They may change the dosage, or suggest alternative treatments such as talking therapy. Unlicensed Medication Adult ADHD is treated with different stimulant and anti-stimulant medications. The psychiatric physician can also prescribe medications that are off-label (these are substances that are approved for a different condition but have emerging evidence for their effectiveness in adults with ADHD). These medications are typically antidepressants like bupropion or venflaxine, both of which have been shown to have some beneficial effect on the condition and are well tolerated at lower doses than those used in licensed treatments. Sometimes, unlicensed medicines are prescribed to a patient when there is a genuine medical need that is unique to the patient and the prescription cannot be met with an alternative licensed medicine. This is for patients whose normal medication is temporarily unavailable due to supply disruption, and patients who require the use of a liquid version of a licensed tablet or capsule for reasons such as intolerance or allergy. Unlicensed medicines are often described as'specials' however this term could be used to describe medicines that are off-label or have been made or distributed in a manner that is not covered under the medicine's licence. Examples include crushing tablets to make them easier for the patient to swallow. Other options include adding liquid to tablets or capsules that are licensed to make a mix that can be administered by injection. In general, healthcare professionals will only employ unlicensed drugs as a last resort and when they feel that there is no approved alternative available. They will carefully consider a wide selection of options to meet the needs of each patient. They will also evaluate treatment and outcomes regularly, in light of both clinical experience and the availability of new licensed treatments. It is vital that any unlicensed medication used to treat a patient is safe and effective. The reason for prescribing a medicine should also be recorded in the patient's medical record. If a person has any adverse reactions from an off-label treatment they should be reported through the MHRA's Yellow Card scheme. This information will be used by the MHRA to amend the marketing authorization of the medication and ensure that future prescriptions are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A talk therapist works with you to help to understand your symptoms and discover ways to manage. They'll also be able provide guidance and advice in changing your way of thinking and act in order to feel more positive about life. It is essential to complete the recommended number of sessions as this will make you feel better. The amount of neurotransmitters that are present in your brain can reduce ADHD symptoms. These chemicals help your neurons transmit messages, allowing you to concentrate your thoughts and stay clear of distractions. There are two main kinds of drugs used to treat ADHD that are stimulants and non-stimulants. They work in slightly 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 is methylphenidate. It is available in immediate-release tablets (small doses taken 2 to 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets (taken every day, but released throughout the day). These aren't an effective cure, but they can help you manage an impulsive behaviour and help you focus. They are usually well-tolerated however your physician will closely monitor your progress to ensure you receive the correct dose and are not experiencing any adverse side negative effects. It can take several weeks for the medication to reach its maximum level. You may also need to adjust your dosage (change your dose on a regular basis) to find out what is most effective. Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine, which is available on prescription only, may be more effective than stimulants and don't have the same possibility of addiction. They have a stronger evidence base, but they aren't as well-tolerated. Some people suffer from problems with their appetite, memory, or sleep. Your doctor will track your progress and determine whether to continue using atomoxetine or switch to another treatment. People with ADHD can't find permanent solutions through therapy or medication. However, they can improve your ability to deal with your symptoms and live a fulfilling life. You will make the most of your treatment if you combine medication with regular sessions with your therapist as this will give you a chance to learn strategies for coping and recognize unhelpful patterns in your behavior and thinking. For some, their improved confidence and mood may persist beyond the conclusion of their treatment.