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ADHD Medication in the UK The drugs for ADHD reduce symptoms by increasing brain activity in specific areas. They also increase the production of neurotransmitters that are absent in people suffering from ADHD. In the UK, stimulant medications are the most frequently prescribed medication for adult ADHD. 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 medications. Stimulants, which enhance brain activity in areas that regulate behavior and attention are usually the first option. These include methylphenidate (often called Ritalin) and the lisdexamfetamine (brand names that include Vyvanse). These tablets can be taken multiple times throughout the day as a short-acting tablet or once a week in the form of a long-acting pill that releases into the bloodstream throughout the day. The dosage of the medication might need to be adjusted regularly in the beginning, as it is adjusted and monitored (titrated) to find the dosage that is effective for you. Stimulants have a long history of use both medicinally and as recreational drugs. In the 1930s truck drivers, students, and athletes used amphetamines in order to increase their energy levels. Amphetamines can be extremely dangerous and carry a high potential for abuse. They are abused as they make people feel great and can stimulate the mind in ways that can lead them to addiction. Loss of appetite, difficulties sleeping, and problems with digestion or stomach are some of the most common side effects of stimulants. Modifications in the dosage or timing of the medication usually can alleviate these problems. The majority of adults are tolerant. Children can experience more serious adverse effects, including tics, weight gain and crankiness. Non-stimulant ADHD medications function differently than stimulants, and it can take a while for them to begin working. Clonidine and Guanfacine (brand names Catapres and Intuniv) are both alpha agonists which work by stimulating certain receptors in the brain to increase concentration, decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity, and reduce behavioral issues like tics and aggression. They can be used on their own or as a complementary treatment alongside ADHD stimulant medications for children aged between 6 and 17 years old. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera is a non-stimulant medication that improves impulse control and concentration by increasing the levels of noradrenaline in the brain. It is a medication that can be prescribed on its own, but is usually combined with guanfacine when children are. These drugs are less likely to cause the same side effects as stimulants, however they can cause a variety of them such as headaches and trouble sleeping. Atomoxetine Some children are not responsive to stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin. For these kids the nonstimulants, or medications, are a possibility. They boost signaling between nerves and regions of the brain, helping kids concentrate more easily and control impulsivity. Non-stimulant ADHD medications use different active ingredients than stimulants. They also do not have the potential for abuse and aren't controlled substances. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera, is a non-stimulant drug that can be used to treat ADHD among adults, children and teenagers. It's an antidepressant, which has been proven to decrease symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of a chemical in the brain called noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is an ingredient that transmits messages between brain cells. It's also involved in impulsivity, motivation, and attention. Due to its unique mechanism of action, atomoxetine isn't able to have the same side effects as other antidepressants such as Wellbutrin and Effexor. It can be prescribed to children as young 5 years old. It is administered once or twice a day in tablet form. Atomoxetine produces stable 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms, and could help to reduce the symptoms in the evening when the effects of stimulants fade. The FDA has also approved guanfacine XR as well as clonidine XR, both of which are available as non-stimulant ADHD medication. They are prescribed to children who have not been able to respond to stimulant medications or who have difficulty with its side effects. They can be used alone or in combination with stimulants like Adderall XR (amphetamine salts) to provide a more effective treatment of ADHD. Follow your doctor's instructions if you or your child is taking a nonstimulant ADHD medication. They'll likely recommend starting with small doses, and then gradually increasing the dosage over time. They'll also want to be aware of any other medications you or your child is taking, so that they can make sure there aren't any interactions. You'll need to go for regular appointments and inform 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 talk therapy. Unlicensed Medication Adult ADHD is treated with a variety of stimulant and anti-stimulant medications. The psychiatric physician may prescribe medications which are 'off-label' for the condition (these are medications that are licensed for other conditions but have emerging evidence of effectiveness in adult ADHD). These medications are typically antidepressants, such as bupropion and venflaxine, which have been shown to have some positive effects in the condition and are well-tolerated at lower doses than those found in licensed treatments. Unlicensed medicines can be prescribed to a patient if there is a real clinical need that can't be satisfied by a licensed medicine. This is the case for patients whose regular medication is not available due to supply disruption or disruptions in supply, as well as patients requiring the use of a liquid version of a certified tablet or capsule due to intolerance or allergy. Unlicensed medications are usually described as'specials' however, this can also apply to medicines which are 'off-label', or that are prepared or supplied in a way that is not covered under the license of the medicine. They could include crushing tablets to make them easier to swallow or adding a liquid to the capsule or tablet that is licensed to make a mixture suitable to be administered via injection, or using a syringe pump in order to administer medication subcutaneously (under the skin). In general, healthcare professionals will only use unlicensed medication as a last resort and when they feel that there is no licensed alternative available. They will carefully evaluate the various options available to meet the specific requirements of each patient. They will also regularly review treatments and outcomes taking into consideration the clinical experience as well as new approved treatments. It is important that any unlicensed medicine used to treat patients is safe and effective, and the reason for prescribing it is recorded in the patient's medical record. www.iampsychiatry.uk about any adverse effects a patient may have from an off-label medication using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. This information will be used to update the medication's MHRA marketing authorisation and so to ensure that any future prescriptions of the drug are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A therapist who works with you will work with you to understand the symptoms you are experiencing and help discover ways to manage them. They will be able to provide guidance and advice on ways to change the way you think and behave to feel more optimistic about life. It is crucial to finish the amount of sessions your therapist recommends as this will help in your feeling more positive. The quantity of neurotransmitters in your brain can reduce ADHD symptoms. These chemicals help your neurons pass on messages, helping you to concentrate your thoughts and avoid distractions. There are two major kinds of drugs used to treat ADHD which are stimulants and non-stimulants. They all increase the quantity of neurotransmitters that are available in your brain. In the UK there are many medications that can be used to treat ADHD. The most frequently used is methylphenidate, available in both immediate-release tablets (small doses that are taken between 2 and 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets (taken daily but released throughout the day). These medicines are not an effective treatment for ADHD however they can make it easier to focus and control an impulsive behavior. They are generally well tolerated, but your specialist will monitor closely to ensure that you get the right dose and don't experience any side effects. The treatment can take a few weeks to reach the best dosage and could need to be titrated (changed regularly) to determine what works best for you. Non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine (available only with a prescription) are more effective and have less of a potential for addiction than stimulants. They have a stronger evidence basis, however they aren't as well-tolerated. Some people experience problems with their memory, appetite or sleep. Your specialist will monitor you development and decide if you should continue with atomoxetine, or switch to another treatment. People suffering from ADHD are unable to find permanent solutions through medication or therapy. They can help you cope with your symptoms, and live a fulfilling lifestyle. Combining therapy with medication sessions will allow you to get the most benefit from your treatment. You'll learn strategies for coping and recognize unhelpful patterns of behavior and thinking. For some, their increased confidence and mood can last well beyond the duration of their treatment.