ADHD Medicines From the NHS
In the past two decades the number of people who receive central nervous system stimulants or ADHD medications from the NHS has dramatically increased. This increase is exacerbated by issues with the supply of medication.
There are many types of UK ADHD medication available, however, many people prefer talking therapy over medication. These therapies can aid children, teenagers and adults to understand their diagnosis and cope with it.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a central nervous stimulant, affects the chemicals in the brain which allow cells to communicate. adhd and anxiety medication improves the capacity of those suffering from ADHD to concentrate, and also reduces the risk of impulsive behavior. This medication is part of a complete program that includes therapy, education and other supports. It is recommended patients only receive this medication from a specialist who is specialized in behavioural problems.
Methylphenidate is a prescription drug for children and adults. It can be taken in the form of a tablet or capsule or mixed with liquid to make an syrup. The doses are carefully adjusted for each patient. Some side effects are possible, but they usually pass within a few days. These include headaches and stomach pains. If these symptoms continue, talk to your doctor.
It is important that your doctor has an accurate understanding of your medical history prior to taking this medication. Methylphenidate could cause serious heart problems for those suffering from heart disease, a history or stroke or heart attack. Inform your doctor if you suffer from depression or any other psychiatric disorder. If you have an underlying history of bipolar disorder, it's especially important to monitor your symptoms closely when taking methylphenidate. It is possible to stop taking the medication if your symptoms get more severe.
Methylphenidated shouldn't be given to children younger than 6 years of age, or to pregnant women. It is not recommended that teens who are younger than 16 should be prescribed this medication as it may negatively impact their growth and development.
There are a variety of different formulations of Methylphenidate. Each has distinct time-action profiles. These profiles are created to meet the needs and preferences of patients at certain times of the day. They also aid in the selection of a product. Switching between different formulations with different pharmacokinetic profiles may cause changes in the management of symptoms at certain moments of the day. It could also lead to differences in how ADHD medication is perceived by patients.
Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine is a medication that is used as a part of a treatment plan to manage symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD with more difficulty focusing, controlling actions and remaining quiet or still than other people who are the same age) in children and adults aged 6 years and over. It is a medication that alters the amount of certain natural substances within the brain. This medication is not recommended for children who are less than six years old or for people older than 65 years old. It is possible to take this medication if you have certain medical problems such as heart disease or high blood pressure. It is also not advised to take this medicine in case you are breastfeeding or pregnant. This medication could cause serious side effects, such as heart attack and stroke. This medication should not be taken with alcohol, or any other drug that can affect your brain or nervous system. This includes stimulants like cocaine, heroin, opiates, some antidepressants and many herbal products. Tell your doctor about any allergies or other health issues.
This medication is taken in the morning as an oral tablet or capsule. Follow the instructions on your prescription label and consult your physician or pharmacist to explain any aspects that you don't understand. This medication is not designed to be taken in the late afternoon or evening because it could cause problems falling asleep and staying asleep.
If you are suffering from severe renal issues, your doctor may start you on a lower dose and closely monitor you for the first few days. This medicine can pass into breastmilk, so you should tell your doctor if breastfeeding. This medicine may cause you to feel tired or dizzy. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you are aware of the effects of this medication on you. This medication could cause a change to your blood pressure, which can result in a heart attack or stroke in certain people.
This medication can interact with some other medications, such as lithium, clozapine, tetracycline and other antidepressants, anticholinergics, and antiseizure medicines. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about any other medications, such as vitamins and nonprescription medicines. It is crucial to inform your doctor whether you are taking diuretics such as sodium bicarbonate (Arm and Hammer Baking Soda, Soda Mint), or a diet pill.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a drug that is not stimulant that is used to treat ADHD in adults and children. It is usually prescribed as a tablet, and is taken once a day, in the morning or in the evening. It blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine which is a key neurotransmitter. It is less likely than stimulants to trigger negative side effects such as dizziness, weight gain or drowsiness. It is less likely to cause an interaction with alcohol or other substances. It is also less likely than other drugs in this class to raise blood pressure.
Atomoxetine is recommended in conjunction with a comprehensive treatment programme, including educational, psychological and social strategies. It is not recommended for use in children under the age of five. It may interact negatively with other medications, including clonidine or lithium. It is also possible to develop dependence on this medication, which is why it should be taken under medical supervision.
Strattera is the brand name used for this drug. It is a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor which helps to reduce hyperactivity and impulse in adults with ADHD. It also improves the concentration, which is a crucial aspect of ADHD. It is a good alternative for those who cannot take stimulants such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. It is also useful in treating Tourette syndrome because it doesn't cause any ailment to the tics.
It is crucial to monitor your heart rate and blood pressure while taking this medication. Consult your physician to see if there is an history of heart disease in your family or a high-risk for it. It is also important to tell your doctor if you suffer from any allergies or other health problems.
People who take atomoxetine are advised to avoid alcohol and fatty foods as they could increase the risk of low blood pressure. The drug may also increase blood triglycerides and cholesterol. Therefore, it is important to adhere to a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
A healthcare professional who is educated and experienced in ADHD management should periodically re-evaluate patients who are taking atomoxetine. The review should include a discussion of the patient's preferences as well as adverse effects, benefits and the ongoing clinical need. Beware of the possibility of a trial period for discontinuing or reducing the dose when evaluation of the balance of benefits and harms suggests this is a good idea.
Modafinil
With the growing number of students at universities, many are turning to medications to cure narcolepsy or ADHD to improve their performance. With fees of up to PS27,000 per year and a shaky job market awaiting the end of the day, this generation is under a lot of pressure to be successful. So it's not surprising that some are resorting to so-called smart drugs in order to aid them in studying more effectively and remain alert during exams.
Modafinil, also known as Provigil, is a wakefulness-promoting prescription drug that is used to treat narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea. Off-label, it is increasingly being used to reduce ADHD symptoms in adults. This is based on research that has shown modafinil may reduce ADHD symptoms in adults and adolescents. However, this isn't a proven effect. Certain studies suggest that modafinil may be an effective way to boost cognitive performance, while others claim that its effects are limited and the long-term consequences of using it are unknown.
The use of cognitive stimulants by UK students is widespread and increasing. In a survey it was discovered that 10% of students used stimulants in the last year to improve their academic performance. It could be that the growing pressure to be successful is behind this trend. Many young people believe that these drugs can make them smarter and allow them to learn for longer periods of time.
Certain of these drugs like amphetamines and methylphenidate have been proven to be effective in the treatment of ADHD. They also pose a risk to adolescents and children. In certain instances they can trigger psychosis. Certain studies have also documented adverse reactions among teenagers who are taking these medications for non-ADHD reasons. The authors of the report suggest that future guidelines take into consideration an approach that is balanced to pharmacological treatment such as amphetamines and methylphenidate being the most preferred choice for the majority of age groups.
TB declares advisory or consulting roles with Actelion and Hexal Pharma; speaker's fees or conference support from Medice and HP; royalties from Hogrefe Kohlhammer CIP Medien and Oxford University Press, and collaboration as a sub-investigator to Shire and Viforpharma. CM-J declares that ACAMH reimburses her for travel expenses for lectures and Healthcare Convention pays her fees for educational activities on ADHD.