ADHD UK Medication Shortages
Millions of people with ADHD in the UK are facing shortages of their medication. These shortages are due to an array of manufacturing issues and a rise in global demand.
Stimulants are the initial line of treatment. These can be short or long-acting. Ritalin, Adderall and other stimulants with a short-acting effect are some examples.
Medication
Millions of people diagnosed with ADHD can be treated with medications. This includes adults who require it for work and children who are unable to concentrate effectively without it. But, despite the fact that these medications are readily available and have been proven to be effective however, the UK NHS is struggling to keep up with demand, resulting in many patients waiting for months or years for prescriptions.
Charity groups have encouraged people to seek assistance from their doctor. While GPs can't diagnose ADHD formally however, they can discuss with them your concerns and refer you to specialists for an assessment. You can accelerate the process by ensuring that you make use of your right of choice', which permits you to select which health care provider will offer NHS treatment for you if you are referred.
According to NICE, (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence), approximately 5% of children suffer from ADHD. Around 3 to 4% adults also suffer from the disorder. Symptoms include inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity which can affect a range of different situations and tasks.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed drugs. They work by increasing the levels of noradrenaline within the brain. These levels are what can help reduce the urge to make decisions and improve focus. In the UK the methylphenidate (also called Ritalin, Adderall) is the most frequently prescribed ADHD medication. It is responsible for 94% of all ADHD prescriptions. It is followed by atomoxetine dexamfetamine and modafinil.
Many have found these medications to be life-saving, however it is important to check with your GP to find out how they're performing. You should be checked regularly, and if you notice that your symptoms are getting worse, you may need to discuss whether to change your medication.
Consider non-stimulant medicines. These are similar to antidepressants and help in the regulation of chemical levels in the brain, which can reduce anxiety, depression or other symptoms. One such medication is guanfacine. This medication is a popular choice for people with ADHD or in children. It is a little slow-acting, but it can increase concentration and reduce the amount of impulsivity in certain people.
Therapy
A combination of therapy and medication is often the most effective treatment for ADHD. Therapy can help patients learn to manage their symptoms and improve their day-to-day lives, and also aid them in understanding the reason they are struggling. The main forms of therapy that are used to treat ADHD are psychoeducation as well as behavioural management plans. cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
If the problem has been present since childhood and is causing moderate to severe psychological, educational and/or social problems, your doctor may refer you to a group-based ADHD support. Typically, this involves a psychiatrist or child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS).
Psychoeducation is one example of group therapy aimed at helping children to understand their condition and how to deal with it. The therapist can also assist children to discuss their experiences and feelings. This can be a empowering and beneficial process. Behavioural control plans, which may involve a reward system can be especially beneficial for adolescents and children as they put some responsibility and power back in their own hands.
CBT is a form of therapy that helps people change how they think and behave. It concentrates on tackling negative beliefs and thoughts that can cause ADHD symptoms and helps them develop the skills to overcome these. It can be used with adults, as well as teenagers and children in a group setting or as one-to-one.
It is crucial that any therapy be delivered by an expert in ADHD, as this could make a huge impact on how the treatment is received by the individuals. This includes special GPs (general practitioners) psychiatrists, psychiatrists and psychologists who specialize in ADHD.
Despite the current shortage of ADHD medication however, it is vital that those people affected continue to seek the most effective treatment for their condition. This includes a doctor who is familiarized with the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD and group psychosocial support, as well as alternative therapies like mindfulness or CBT. It is also recommended for those on medication to have breaks from their medication over the weekends and during school holidays. This will allow them to take a break from the adverse effects their medications, such as methylphenidate, atomoxetine and Lisdexamfetamine may cause.
Alternatives
In certain instances treatments that aren't pharmacological might be suggested. This can include psychological, educational, behavioural and lifestyle interventions. Non-pharmacological treatments can reduce the symptoms of ADHD and help manage it better. However, it may not be suitable for everyone and it may take time to figure out the best treatment for you.
Since the 1980s when 'ADD medication was first recognized as a diagnostic the use of medications to treat ADHD have progressed a lot. There are a variety of options to choose from and they can be customized to your specific needs. This includes the type of medication and dosages you will need to take in order in order to be effective and how quickly it takes to start working.
The most common medication prescribed for ADHD is stimulants. They stimulate certain regions of the brain to improve concentration, control impulsive behaviour and decrease hyperactivity. These medications work quickly, and can begin to work within 30-60 minutes. They can also be taken orally (by mouth) or via a patch.
Lisdexamfetamine is a different medicine that can be used to treat ADHD and operates in a similar way to stimulants. Adults can use it as a first choice, but teens and children (5+) are more likely to develop it if methylphenidate doesn't help their symptoms. It is available in tablet form and is able to be taken daily or as a capsule.
Atomoxetine is a different medication that can be used to treat ADHD. It is known as a "non-stimulant" drug because it doesn't work like stimulants do. It's a selective reuptake of noradrenaline inhibitor and is typically taken orally. Adults can take it as 'Adderall' or as tablets that dissolve rapidly in your mouth (Evekeo).
Research has shown that more physical health conditions are connected to mental disorders that are neurodiverse. This is particularly relevant for Ehlers Danlos Syndromes that can cause pain or hypermobility. Many people who suffer from ADHD also suffer from one or two of these disorders.
Side effects
Millions of people suffering from ADHD in the UK are having issues with their medications due to shortages, which may last for a long time. The supply problems have caused disruption to many lives and also concerned about the effects on children and their mental health. The NHS has instructed doctors not to prescribe drugs to new patients until the stock is replenished and to offer alternate therapies in the in the interim.
The GP can test an adult or child for ADHD and send them to an ADHD specialist if needed. If there is a diagnosis, medications can be prescribed in accordance with strict Nice guidelines, as long as the person is in compliance with international standards for the condition. This is done by psychiatrists, psychologists, specialist mental health nurse, or paediatrician.
Stimulants are among the most popular ADHD medications in Europe and the UK They include the methylphenidate family (Ritalin) and amphetamine salts (Adderall). adhd medication increase dopamine levels in the brain, which assists manage impulses and improves concentration. There are two types that work differently: a form that is shorter-acting and one with a modified release that lasts longer.
Certain people may experience adverse effects due to these medications. However, they generally disappear within a few days as the body adapts to the medication. Some of them include headache, abdominal discomfort, irritability, or grumpiness. Children who are taking stimulant ADHD medication often experience an appetite reduction and can lose weight, which isn't healthy. Some people may have problems sleeping and have nightmares.
If a person of any age is undergoing long-term treatment it is crucial that they continue to see their GP at least every two to three months. This allows the GP to check that the medications are working and monitor any potential side effects. They can also provide advice regarding lifestyle changes that may aid in reducing ADHD symptoms.
If the supply problem persists, seek out a private psychiatrist to conduct an ADHD assessment and prescribe medication. They can also carry out the follow up appointments, initially every fortnight, and later every month, to ensure the ADHD medications are working.