"Ask Me Anything": Ten Answers To Your Questions About ADHD UK Medication
ADHD UK Medication
ADHD medications are controlled and must be prescribed by a specialist physician. These stimulants include methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta), the amphetamines salts and atomoxetine.
Talk therapy and other non-medical treatment is often recommended. The use of medication can ease symptoms but they don't change longstanding negative coping mechanisms.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most well-known ADHD drug prescribed in the UK, is also used to treat narcolepsy as well as other psychiatric conditions. It is also used for narcolepsy, and other psychiatric disorders. It is available in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. The extended-release capsules are less soluble and last longer. It is typically prescribed for a specific period of time, and the exact dosage is determined by the individual's symptoms.
In general, stimulant medications increase activity in brain regions that regulate attention and behavior. They are often referred to as "cognitive enhancers", and they help people focus, pay attention and remain on task. Methylphenidate increases activity in areas of the brain which are inactive within ADHD patients. It is also a central nervous system stimulant that can improve the way your body utilizes energy. It is also marketed as Ritalin.
A recent study found that prescriptions for methylphenidate have increased eightfold in UK in the last two decades. This is an important health issue for the public and suggests that there may be a misdiagnosis of ADHD in the UK. Researchers looked at data from the Clinical Practice Research Database (CPRD) which provides details of all NHS patients who were registered with a GP in England from 1992 until 2013. The study focused on the use of medications classified as CNS stimulants and approved for ADHD in the British National Formulary. This includes methylphenidate (methylphenidate immediate-release and methylphenidate with extended release) and atomoxetine as well as dexamphetamine (and its derivative lisdexamfetamine) and modafinil. Pemoline, which is not available in the UK due to liver toxicities, was excluded from the study.
Researchers found that methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed drug for children 5 years old and younger. Nearly a quarter these children have been prescribed this drug. This is despite the fact that National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines recommend that medication only be offered as the first line treatment for children who have severe symptoms of ADHD. In addition, they suggest that parents consider psychological intervention instead.
The results suggest that the increase in prescriptions for methylphenidate could be partly down to the availability of mental health services, but it could also be due to the increasing recognition of ADHD in younger people and the increasing willingness to seek treatment and diagnosis. There could also be cases of inappropriate prescribing methylphenidate for adolescents and young adults.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline receptor inhibitor (SNRI) used to treat ADHD in adolescents and children. It also serves as a treatment for anxiety disorders that are comorbid. It is not a stimulant, and it has low potential for abuse. It has been proven to be effective in clinical studies and is a viable option for children who haven't responded to stimulants. The long-term safety is unknown.
Atomoxetine is different in comparison to other ADHD medication. It increases the amount of a chemical called noradrenaline that is found in the brain. This chemical transmits messages between nerve cells, and increasing its levels can enhance concentration and help control impulses. It is available in capsules and is taken once a daily. The medication is usually taken in combination with other treatments, including psychological therapy, educational support and cognitive therapy for behavioural issues.
In one study, atomoxetine was found to be more effective than placebo in improving ADHD symptoms. It is well-tolerated and has a lower side effect risk than stimulants particularly in children. A recent cost-effectiveness study revealed that treatment algorithms that used atomoxetine as the initial drug were less expensive than those utilizing dexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
This drug can cause serious side effects like suicidal thoughts. If your child exhibits these symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately. Additionally, atomoxetine may interact with certain medicines like monoamine oxidase inhibiters (MAOIs) like phenelzine. If your child is taking MAOIs stop the medication and consult your doctor to suggest a different option.
Some people may experience a loss of appetite, tiredness or stomach pain. These side effects are usually mild, but they may be extreme in certain cases. adhd and anxiety medication is associated with a serious, but rare condition known as hepatic dysfunction which can lead to liver failure. This could be fatal in some cases. Therefore, it is essential to check with your doctor prior to taking this medicine if you have an history of liver problems or other health issues.
It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking such as herbal and alternative treatments. This includes prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and minerals. It is crucial to inform your doctor if taking any other ADHD medications, such as methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine. Inform your doctor if you or your child is pregnant, breastfeeding or considering becoming pregnant.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine is a stimulant that is used to treat ADHD among adults. It is able to improve concentration and attention, reduce impulsive behavior and improve mood. It can be taken orally, or as a solution or capsule. It is essential to take it regularly and as prescribed by your doctor. If you take too much or stop taking abruptly can cause problems. You should not drive or operate machines if you take this medication. You should also never carry the medication around without the prescription. Always have proof that you have been prescribed it. You should bring your medication with you to work or school in case you require it during the course of your day.
Dexamfetamine should be used with caution by epilepsy patients because it may lower the threshold for convulsions. It is not recommended to use in patients who have an underlying blood vessel or cardiac problems such as coronary heart disease or high blood pressure. It is not recommended to use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It is excreted into breast milk, and thus poses a risk to the infant.
If the symptoms of ADHD get more severe, a visit to the physician is suggested. This can help to establish whether the condition is controlled with medications and whether the medications are appropriate. This will enable the physician to alter dosages or switch to alternative treatments if necessary.
A doctor will start the patient on a low dosage and increase it gradually to ensure that they receive the right dosage. It is also a good idea to take the tablets at the same time every day, usually with food. This will help you remember when to take them and it can decrease the chances of missing doses.
In addition to taking medication, individuals who suffer from ADHD may benefit from psychoeducation and therapy. This can help children, teens and adults to understand their condition and learn how to deal with it. Therapy can also help them deal with additional problems, such as depression or anxiety. Psychoeducation combines educational material and support from an experienced professional, while 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. It is also used off-label to treat symptoms of ADHD for adults who are 18 years old or older. However, it isn't approved for this use and should only be used under a doctor's supervision. It is only available with a prescription, and should be kept in a secure place away from children. It is crucial to adhere to the directions on the prescription label. Also, ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any aspect of the medication that you do not understand.
The NHS website describes modafinil as a central nerve system stimulant that can prevent excessive sleeping throughout the daytime. It is prescribed to treat narcolepsy however it has been used off-label to help people with Parkinson's Disease and Multiple Sclerosis remain awake, as well as those suffering from fatigue caused by sleep apnea/hypopnea obstruction or shift work. It is also a favorite choice for students, executives and military personnel who have to be alert.
In a recent study, one in five UK students admitted taking the "smart-drug" to help improve their ability to concentrate in exams. Jack Rivlin, 24, editor of the student newspaper The Tab in Farringdon, London, told BBC Newsbeat that he had purchased modafinil through an offshore website for PS130 last term to aid in his revision.
While he says he doesn't believe that modafinil can make him smarter, he admits it has helped him to keep up with his notes and pass his exam. These drugs are not miracle cures and may have serious 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. Modafinil can also interfere negatively with certain medications, such as antidepressants and sedatives. It is possible that you will suffer withdrawal symptoms and become dependent on the drug if suddenly stop taking it.
Like methylphenidate and atomoxetine, modafinil is classified as a Class B drug, which means it's illegal to possess or supply. If you're caught, you could be facing up to five years in prison.