ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist when a diagnosis is made. The NHS is currently experiencing an acute shortage of central nervous system stimulants, which includes ADHD medications.
The shortage is due to manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand. The shortage is expected to be solved between December 2023 and Oct 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name for a mixture of amphetamine salts. It is a powerful stimulant that when taken correctly helps people who suffer from ADHD remain focused, manage their thoughts, and remain focused. how does medication for adhd work is prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
The FDA approved the first drug that was able to treat both conditions. It is a central nervous stimulant that increases norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters within the brain. These chemicals boost concentration and alertness for those who suffer from narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to those suffering from ADHD in tablets or liquid. It is taken as needed, or multiple times per day to help improve symptoms of the condition. concerta adhd medication who take Adderall may experience adverse effects, such as headaches, stomach upset and a dry mouth. Some people may develop a tolerance to the medication and may have to take more than what their doctor recommends to achieve the same effect.
People suffering from certain heart conditions shouldn't take stimulants, including Adderall. They can cause anxiety and raise heart rate, which can be risky for people with heart disease or heart problems. People with glaucoma or kidney or liver problems should also talk to their doctor before taking Adderall. Adderall can cause birth defects in babies born to women who took it during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown that the drug can cause birth defects in the fetus. However, there is not enough information to know the effects it has on the pregnant fetus.
The effects of stimulants can slow growth in children but the effect isn't significant and the majority of kids get caught up by adulthood. They can also cause psychosis, which is a mix between hallucinations, delusions and other symptoms.
Adderall is an Schedule II drug, meaning it has a high potential for abuse. It is abused by those who don't have ADHD, who use it to boost their energy levels or lose weight. Illegal users frequently mix it with cocaine to enhance the effects. It can also be detected in tests for drugs used for sports or at work.
3. Concerta
Concerta, similar to Adderall and Vyvanse is an extended-release drug that is taken in the morning. It is believed that it works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain. This can improve concentration and other ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to take this medication according to the dosage prescribed by a physician. Do not increase the dosage without consulting your physician. This could cause negative side consequences. It is also recommended to store Concerta in a secure location away from the reach of children and at room temperature.
Insomnia is another common side effect that can make it difficult to sleep. It is suggested that you try to take it at the same time each day. A pill reminder or medication timer can help keep you on track. This medication is in pregnancy category C. It is only recommended to use it if the benefits outweigh any risk for the baby's development. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate over an extended period of time, since it may lead to dependency.
This medication can also trigger tics. These are unintentional, repetitive motions or sounds. This can be characterized by head bobbing, eye blinking and humming. This is something that most people don't have, but in the event that it happens to you, consult your doctor about it.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a drug that can be used to treat ADHD in children and adults. It is a drug that contains the active ingredient, dexmethylphenidate. It is a stimulant for the central nervous system to decrease the risk of impulsivity and improve focus in people with ADHD.
Focalin along with other stimulant medications can help boost the levels of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in the communication between nerve cells, and increase attention, vigilance and impulse control. They are therefore effective ADHD drugs. The dosage of Focalin differs based on the age of the patient. It may be either long or short-acting. The short-acting tablets are called immediate-release while the longer-acting tablets are known as extended-release.
Long-term use of Focalin can trigger serious adverse reactions. The drug has been linked with depression, especially in those that aren't prone to it. This is because the medication causes neurotransmitters levels to stay high for a longer period of time. Joanna Moncrieff is a professor of psychiatry and psychiatrist at University College London. She has spent hours fighting what she believes to be an overprescription of stimulant medication for mental disorders.
Focalin can also trigger psychomotor retardation or agitation for certain people. Some individuals may feel temporarily energized and a little euphoric. Other common Focalin adverse effects include sleeplessness and drowsiness. Patients may also develop tolerance to the drug, and require greater and higher doses to get the same effect. This can result in dependence and addiction.
To minimize the risk of Focalin abuse doctors should periodically review the risk of their patients and look for signs of abuse, misuse or addiction. They must advise patients to store the medication in a secure location and not give it to anyone else. They should also educate patients about the dangers of accidental overdoses, and instruct them on how to dispose of unneeded medication.
Focalin unlike other ADHD medication, doesn't immediately start to work. The effects of the drug begin within two to three hours after taking it, and last for as long as four hours. This is the reason it's frequently used in conjunction with other non-medical therapies, like cognitive behavior therapy.