ADHD UK Medication
ADHD medications are 'controlled drugs' that require a specialist physician to prescribe them. These are referred to as stimulants and include the methylphenidate family (Ritalin, Concerta etc), the amphetamine salts and atomoxetine.
Talk therapy and other non-medical treatments is usually recommended. you could try these out can help with symptoms but they don't change the long-standing negative coping mechanisms.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed ADHD drug in the UK. It is also used to treat narcolepsy and various other psychiatric issues. It comes in both immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. The extended-release version takes longer to dissolve and provides long-lasting effects. It is typically prescribed for a short period of time and the exact dosage will depend on the patient's symptoms.
In general, stimulant medicines stimulate the areas of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. They are sometimes called "cognitive enhancements" and aid in paying attention, focus and remain focused. Methylphenidate is a stimulant that increases activity in areas of the brain that are inactive for people suffering from ADHD. It can also improve your body's energy use. It is sold under the brand name Ritalin.
A recent study has revealed that the UK has seen an eight-fold rise in prescriptions for methylphenidate over the last two decades. This is a serious public health issue and may indicate that ADHD is being misdiagnosed in the UK. Researchers examined data from the Clinical Practice Research Database, which provides information about all NHS patients who were registered in England with a GP between 1992 and 2013. The study focused on medications that have been approved by the British National Formulary for ADHD and classified as CNS Stimulants. This includes methylphenidate (methylphenidate immediate-release and methylphenidate's extended release), atomoxetine, dexamphetamine (and its derivative lisdexamfetamine) and modafinil. Pemoline is no longer a licensed drug in the UK due to liver toxicities and was therefore excluded from the study.
Researchers found that methylphenidate was the most commonly prescribed drug for children aged 5 or younger. Nearly a quarter of these children are prescribed this medication. This is despite the fact that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines suggest that the medication be offered as the first line treatment for children who have severe symptoms of ADHD. They recommend parents think about psychotherapy.
The results suggest that the increase in methylphenidate prescriptions is partly due to the availability of mental health services but may also reflect the increasing recognition of ADHD in younger people and a growing desire to seek diagnosis and treatment. There are also likely to be cases of inappropriate prescribing methylphenidate to adolescents and young adults.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine, a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibit (SNRI) is used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents. It is also used to treat anxiety-related symptoms that are comorbid. It is not a stimulant, and it has low abuse potential. It has been proven to be effective in clinical studies and is a great option for children that do not respond well to stimulants. The long-term safety is unknown.
Atomoxetine differs from other ADHD medications for ADHD. It boosts the amount of a chemical in the brain that is known as noradrenaline. This chemical transmits messages between nerve cells and increasing its levels can boost concentration and aid in controlling impulses. It is available in capsule form and is taken a single time per day. This medication is usually used in conjunction with other treatments, such as psychological therapy, educational support, and cognitive therapy for behavioural problems.
In one study, atomoxetine was found to be more effective than placebo in improving ADHD symptoms. It is well-tolerated and has a lower side effect risk than stimulants, especially in children. A recent cost-effectiveness study revealed that treatment algorithms using atomoxetine for the first drug were cheaper than those that used dexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
This drug is linked to serious side effects including suicidal feelings. Speak to your doctor immediately if you child exhibits these symptoms. In addition, atomoxetine can interact with certain medications such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like phenelzine. If your child is taking MAOIs stop the medication and consult your doctor to recommend an alternative.
Some people may experience a feeling of fatigue, a loss of appetite, or stomach discomfort. These side effects can be either severe or mild depending on the individual. Atomoxetine has been linked with a rare, but serious condition called hepatic impairment. This condition can cause liver failure. In certain cases, this can be fatal. It is important to consult your doctor if you have suffered from liver issues or other health issues in the past.
Inform your doctor about all the medications you take including complementary and herbal treatments. This includes prescription as well as over-the-counter medications including minerals and vitamins. It is particularly important to inform your doctor whether you are taking other medications for ADHD such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. Inform your doctor if you or your child is breastfeeding, pregnant or is considering becoming pregnant.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine is a stimulant that is used to treat ADHD among adults. It can improve attention and concentration, reduce impulsive behaviour and improve mood. It is a drink or as a capsule or solution. It is important to use it regularly and as prescribed by your doctor. Stopping too often or taking abruptly could cause problems. Don't operate or drive machinery if you're taking this medication. It is also illegal to carry the medication without your prescription and you should always carry evidence that you've been given it, such as a repeated prescription form or a patient information leaflet. You should also carry your medication to school or work with you, in the event it's required during the day.
Dexamfetamine is to be used with caution by epilepsy patients because it may lower the threshold for convulsions. It should not be used in patients who have an history of heart or blood vessel conditions, like coronary heart disease or high blood pressure. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing. It is excreted into breast milk and consequently, there is a risk for the infant.
If symptoms of ADHD worsen, a review with the prescriber is advised. This can help determine whether the condition is controlled by medication and whether the medicines are appropriate. This will allow the doctor prescribing the medication to adjust dosages or switch treatments as needed.
A doctor will start the patient on a low dose and gradually increase the dosage to make sure they get the right level of medication for them. It is a good idea to take your tablets at the same time every day, usually with food. This will help you remember when to take them and it can reduce the chances of missing doses.
In addition to taking medication, people who suffer from ADHD can benefit from psychoeducation and therapy. This can help children as well as adults to manage their condition. Therapy can help them deal with additional issues such as depression or anxiety. Psychoeducation is a blend of educational materials and professional assistance, while therapeutic therapy can be behavioural or cognitive.
Modafinil
Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting prescription drug that reduces extreme sleepiness that accompanies conditions such as narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and shift work sleep disorder. Modafinil can be used off-label for people who are more than 18 years old to treat signs of ADHD. It is not approved for this use and should be used only under the supervision of a doctor. It is only available with a prescription and should be kept in a safe place from children. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification if it is difficult to understand any part of the medication.
The NHS website describes modafinil as a central nervous system stimulant that helps prevent excessive sleepiness during the daytime. Modafinil is prescribed to treat the condition of narcolepsy. It is widely used for people with Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and fatigue triggered by sleep apnea/hypopnea, or shift work. Executives, students, and military personnel who must remain alert are also frequent users.
A recent survey of UK students revealed that one in five have taken a "smart drug" to boost their concentration during their examinations. Jack Rivlin, 24, editor of the student newspaper The Tab in Farringdon, London, told BBC Newsbeat that he had purchased modafinil from an offshore website for PS130 last year to aid him in his revision.
While he says he doesn't believe that modafinil can make him smarter, he admits it has helped him to keep up with his notes and pass his test. It's important to remember that these medications aren't magic bullets and can cause serious side effects.
In addition to its wakefulness-promoting effects, modafinil can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems in some patients, especially those with heart disease. It may also interact with certain medications, such as antidepressants and sedatives. You may also experience withdrawal symptoms and become dependent on the drug if suddenly stop taking it.
Modafinil, like methylphenidate or atomoxetine is classified as a class B drug. This means it is illegal to possess, distribute, or sell. If you are caught, you could be facing up to five years in prison.