ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist when they are able to make a diagnosis. The NHS is currently facing an acute shortage of central nervous system stimulants, including ADHD medications.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing problems and an increased global demand. The shortage is expected to be solved between December 2023 and Oct 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name for amphetamine salts that are a mixture. It's a powerful stimulant that when taken in the right way, helps people with ADHD concentrate and stay on track, as well as manage their impulses. It is prescribed to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
The FDA approved the first medication that treated both conditions. It is a central nerve stimulant that boosts norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters in the brain. These chemicals improve concentration and alertness in people with narcolepsy.
Adderall is prescribed by doctors to ADHD patients in tablet or liquid form. Adderall can be used regularly or as needed to alleviate symptoms. People who take Adderall can experience side effects, including headaches, stomach upsets and dry mouth. Some people can develop tolerance to the drug and might need to take more than their doctor prescribes to get the same effect.
People with certain heart disorders should not take stimulants, such as Adderall. They can cause anxiety and increase heart rate, which is dangerous for those suffering from heart disease or problems. adhd medication uk for adults suffering from glaucoma, liver or kidney problems should consult their physicians prior to taking it. Adderall can also cause birth defects in babies born to women who have taken it during pregnancy. There's not enough information available on how the drug can affect a fetus, however studies on animals have revealed negative effects.
Stimulants can slow down growth in children, but the effect is minimal and the majority of children catch up when they reach adulthood. They can also cause psychosis which is a combination of hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms.
Adderall is an Schedule II drug, meaning it has a high potential for abuse. It can be abused by people who don't have ADHD who are using it to boost their energy levels or lose weight. adhd medication adults uk mix it with cocaine to increase the effects. It is also detected during drug tests for sports or work.
3. Concerto
Similar to Adderall and Vyvanse, Concerta is an extended-release medication that is taken one time per day in the morning. It is believed to work by increasing levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. This can improve concentration and other ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to take this medication exactly as recommended by your physician. Do not increase the dose without a prescription from a doctor, as doing so can increase side effects. It is also recommended to keep Concerta in a safe place away from the reach of children and at the temperature of room.
Another common side effect of this medication is insomnia that can make it difficult to fall asleep. It is best to take the medication at the same time each day. A pill reminder or a medication timer could help keep you on track. This drug is in pregnancy category C. It should only be used when the benefits outweigh any risks for the baby's development. Long-term use of methylphenidate is not recommended as it can result in dependence.
This medication can also trigger tics. These are unintentional, repetitive actions or sounds. This can be characterized by head bobbing, eye blinking and humming. This is something that most people do not notice however, if it does happen to you, talk to your doctor about it.
4. Focalin
Focalin can be used by adults and children to treat ADHD. It is a dexmethylphenidate-based medication that stimulates the central nervous system and decreases impulsivity in ADHD patients.
Like other stimulant medications, Focalin can help increase levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters improve the vigilance, attention, and control of impulses. They are responsible for the communication between nerve cells. They are therefore effective ADHD medications. The dosage of Focalin is dependent on the age of the patient. It may be either short or long acting. The tablets that are short-acting are known as immediate-release, while the more powerful tablets are known as extended-release.
The long-term use of focalin can result in serious adverse effects. The drug has been linked with depression, especially in those who are not predisposed. The reason for this is that the medication can cause neurotransmitters to remain elevated for a long time. Joanna Moncrieff is a professor of psychiatry and a psychiatrist at University College London. She has spent many hours fighting what she believes to be an overprescription of stimulant medications for mental disorders.
Certain people may also experience psychomotor retardation and agitation with Focalin. There is also a temporary feeling of being slightly euphoric and energised. Other typical Focalin side effects include sleeplessness and drowsiness. Patients can also develop tolerance to the drug, which means they need higher and higher dosages to achieve the same results. This could lead to addiction and dependence.
To limit the risk of Focalin misuse, doctors should regularly reassess the risks for their patients and be on the lookout for signs of abuse, misuse or addiction. They should advise patients to keep the drug in a secure place and not to distribute it to others. They must also inform patients of the dangers of accidental overdoses and how to dispose unused medication.
Contrary to other ADHD medications, Focalin does not take effects immediately. The effects of the drug appear in the first two to three hours after taking it, and last up to four hours. This is why it's commonly prescribed with other non-medication therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy.