ADHD Medication in the UK
A psychiatrist will prescribe ADHD medication for adults who have been diagnosed. However the NHS is experiencing shortages of many central nervous system stimulants and ADHD medicines.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing issues and a rise in global demand. It's expected to be resolved between October and December 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is a brand name for amphétamine salts. It is a potent stimulant, which, when taken correctly helps people who suffer from ADHD remain focused, manage their thoughts, and remain on task. It is prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder as well as narcolepsy.
It was the first medicine to be approved by the FDA to treat both conditions. It is a central nervous stimulant that boosts norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters inside the brain. Increased levels of these chemicals assist in focusing, and increase alertness in people suffering from narcolepsy.
Full Post prescribe Adderall to those suffering from ADHD in tablets or in liquid form. It is a medication that can be taken when needed, or multiple times throughout the day to reduce symptoms of the condition. Adderall users may suffer from side effects like dry mouth, headaches, and stomach upset. Some people might develop a tolerance for the medication and need to take more than what their doctor recommends to achieve the same results.
Adderall is not recommended for people with certain heart issues. They can increase anxiety and raise heart rate, which is dangerous for those who suffer from heart disease or problems. Before taking Adderall, those suffering from liver, glaucoma or kidney issues should also consult their doctor. Adderall can also cause birth defects to babies born to mothers who took it during pregnancy. There isn't enough information about how the drug can affect a fetus, however animal studies have shown negative effects.
Stimulants can slow down growth in children but the effect is minimal and most kids are able to catch up once they reach adulthood. They can also trigger psychosis, which is a combination of hallucinations and delusions.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it has a significant possibility of abuse. It can be abused by people who don't have ADHD and who take it to boost their energy levels or lose weight. Illegal users often mix it with cocaine to boost the effects. It is also a factor during drug tests for sports or at work.
3. Concerto
Concerta, just like Adderall and Vyvanse is an extended-release medication that is taken in the morning. It is believed to work by increasing levels of two neurotransmitters in the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine. This can improve concentration as well as other ADHD symptoms. It is essential to take this medication as recommended by a doctor. Do not increase the dosage without a doctor's permission, as doing so can increase the risk of side effects. Store Concerta at room temperature and in a place that is out of reach of children.
Another side effect that is common to this medication is insomnia that can make it difficult to get to sleep. It is recommended that you try to take it at the same time every day. You can track your medication with an alarm clock or pill reminder. This medication is in pregnancy category C, which means that it is only utilized when the benefits are greater than the risks to a growing baby. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate over an extended period of time, since it could lead to dependence.
It is also important to note that this medication may cause tics, which are repeated motions or sounds that are made without intention to. This can include eye blinking, head bobbing and humming. Most people won't experience this however, if you do, speak to your doctor.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a drug that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. It is made up of dexmethylphenidate, which stimulates the central nervous system and reduces impulsivity in ADHD patients.
Focalin along with other stimulant medications can help boost the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are responsible for communication between nerve cells and improve vigilance, attention and control of impulses. This makes them efficient ADHD treatment medications. The dosage of Focalin differs based on the age of the patient and can be either long- or short-acting. The short-acting tablets are called immediate-release while the longer-acting tablets are referred to as extended-release.
Focalin's long-term use can cause serious side effects. The drug has been linked to depression, especially in those that aren't predisposed to it. The reason for this is that the medication can cause neurotransmitters to remain elevated for a prolonged time. Joanna Moncrieff is a professor of psychiatry as well as a psychiatrist at University College London. She has spent countless hours fighting what she believes to be the overprescription of stimulant drugs for mental disorders.
Certain people may also experience psychomotor impairment and agitation with Focalin. There is also an euphoria-like sensation that lasts for a short time. energised and mildly euphoric. Other typical Focalin side effects include insomnia and drowsiness. In addition, patients can sometimes develop tolerance to the drug and they need higher and higher doses to achieve the same effect. This can lead to dependence and addiction.
To minimize the risk of Focalin addiction doctors should review their patients' risks and look for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse or addiction. They should tell patients to keep the drug in a secure location and not to distribute it to anyone else. They should also inform patients about the dangers of accidental overdoses as well as how to dispose unused medication.
Focalin, unlike other ADHD medications, does not immediately take effect. The effects of Focalin appear in the first three hours following the dose, and can last for up to four hours. This is the reason it is frequently prescribed with other non-medication therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.