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ADHD Medication in the UK Medications for ADHD aid in reducing symptoms by boosting the activity of certain regions of the brain. They also boost neurotransmitters, which are deficient in people suffering from ADHD. In the UK stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed medication for adult ADHD. They are used to increase brain activity in areas involved in attention and impulse regulation. Stimulants There are two kinds of medication licensed for use in the UK to treat adult ADHD stimulants and non-stimulant drugs. Stimulants, which enhance brain activity in areas that regulate behavior and attention, are often the first option. They include methylphenidate (often referred to as Ritalin) and Lisdexamfetamine (brand names that include Vyvanse). These tablets can be taken multiple times throughout the day as a short-acting tablet or every week as a long-acting medication that releases into the bloodstream throughout the day. At first the dose of the medication could need to be adjusted and monitored (titrated) to determine the dose that is effective for you. Stimulants have a long history of use both medicinally and as recreational drugs. In the 1930s, truck drivers, students, and athletes used amphetamines to increase their energy levels. Amphetamines pose a risk and can be misused. They are used to can make people feel good and can stimulate the brain in ways that could lead to addiction. The most frequent side effects of stimulants are loss of appetite, trouble sleeping and issues with stomach or digestive system. Adjustments to the dosage or timing of the medication can help can alleviate these problems. They are generally accepted by adults in general. Children can experience more serious side effects, such as the tics, weight gain and irritability. Non-stimulant ADHD medications work differently than stimulants, and it may take some time before they begin to show results. Clonidine and Guanfacine, also called Catapres and Intuniv are alpha agonists. They work by stimulating receptors in the brain to increase concentration and reduce hyperactivity, impulsivity and behavioral issues like aggression and tics. They can be used as a complement to ADHD stimulant medications or taken on their own by children aged 6-17. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera is a non-stimulant drug that improves concentration and impulse control by increasing levels of noradrenaline in the brain. It is a medication that can be used on its own but is most commonly combined with guanfacine for children. These drugs do not have the same negative side effects as stimulants, but they can cause headaches and difficulty sleeping. Atomoxetine Certain children aren't able to respond to stimulant drugs like Adderall and Ritalin. For these children the nonstimulants, or medications, are a possibility. They enhance the communication between brain regions, nerves and areas of the brain. This helps children manage their impulsivity and improve their concentration. Non-stimulant ADHD drugs contain different active ingredients than stimulants. They also do not have the potential to be abused and are not controlled substances. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is one of the newest non-stimulant medications used to treat ADHD in children, adults and teens. It's an antidepressant that's been proven to lessen the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of a chemical in the brain that is known as noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is a chemical that sends messages between brain cells. It's also involved in impulsivity, motivation and attention. Due to its unique mechanism of action, atomoxetine does not have the same side effects as other antidepressants like Wellbutrin and Effexor. It can be prescribed to children as young as 5 years old. It is taken either once or twice a day in tablet form. Atomoxetine provides stable, 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms, so it may help reduce problems in the evening when the effects of some stimulants diminish. Both guanfacine and Clonidine are available as non-stimulant ADHD medication. These are available to children who have not had a positive response to stimulant medication or who have difficulty with its side effects. They can be used in conjunction with stimulants such as Adderall XR, (amphetamines salts), to treat ADHD more effectively. Follow the instructions of your doctor if you or your child is receiving treatment with a nonstimulant ADHD medicine. They may suggest starting with a low dose and gradually increasing them. They'll also want be aware of any other medications you or your child are taking to ensure that for interactions. You'll have to make regular appointments and let your GP know if you're experiencing any concerns or reactions from the medication. They'll be able to alter your dosage or give advice on alternative treatments such as talking therapy. Unlicensed Medication The medication used to treat ADHD in adults is a range of non-stimulant and stimulant drugs. Psychiatrists can also prescribe medicines that are off-label (these are drugs which are licensed for another condition, but have evidence emerging for effectiveness in adult ADHD). These are typically antidepressants such as bupropion or venflaxine, both of which have been shown to have a positive effect on the condition and are well-tolerated at lower doses than those found in licensed treatments. adhd adult medication I Am Psychiatry can be prescribed to patients when there is a genuine clinical need that can't be satisfied by a licensed medicine. This is the case for patients whose regular medication is not available due to disruption in supply, or patients who require liquid formulations of a licensed tablet or capsule due to reasons like intolerance or allergy. Unlicensed medications are often called “specials”. This term is also used to describe medicines that are “off-label” or have been prepared or provided in a way that is not covered by the licence. This could include crushing tablets to make them easier to swallow or adding a liquid to an approved capsule or tablet to form a mixture to be administered via injection, or using a syringe pump to administer the medication subcutaneously (under the skin). In general healthcare professionals will only make use of unlicensed medications as a last resort and when they feel that no licensed alternative is available. They will carefully consider the various options available to meet the specific requirements of each patient. They will also evaluate the results and treatment regularly taking into account both clinical experience and the availability of new treatments that are licensed. It is essential that any unlicensed medicine used to treat a patient is safe and effective, and the reason for prescribing it is documented in the patient's medical record. Report any side effects the patient may experience as a result of an off-label medication using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. The information provided will be used by the MHRA to revise the marketing authorisation for the medication and ensure that future prescriptions are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A therapist who works with you to help understand your symptoms and find ways to manage. They will also provide guidance and advice on how to change your way of thinking and behavior to feel more positive. It is essential to complete the amount of sessions your therapist suggests as this will make your feeling more positive. Medicines can reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the quantity of neurotransmitters that your brain produces. These are chemicals that allow your neurons to pass on messages to help you focus your mind and avoid distractions. There are two main types of medication used to treat ADHD that are stimulants and non-stimulants. All of them increase the availability neurotransmitters within your brain. There are a number of medicines licensed in the UK to treat ADHD. The most popular medication is methylphenidate. It is available in immediate-release tablets that are used in small doses, 2 to 3 times per day. Or as modified-release tablets that are taken weekly, but released over the duration of the day. These medications aren't a cure for ADHD but they can help to control and focus on an impulsive behavior. They are generally well-tolerated, but your specialist will monitor you closely to ensure you get the correct dose and do not suffer from any adverse effects. It can take several weeks to reach the best dosage and could need to be titrated (changed regularly) to determine the most effective dosage for you. Non-stimulant medicines like atomoxetine, that is available by prescription only, are more efficient than stimulants, and don't have the same possibility of addiction. They are more effective but not as well tolerated. Certain people might experience issues with memory, appetite or sleep. Your doctor will be able to monitor your development and decide if you should keep taking atomoxetine or switch to another treatment. People with ADHD are unable to find permanent solutions through medication or therapy. They can help you cope with your symptoms, and lead a happy life. You will benefit the most from your treatment by combining medication with regular visits to your therapist, because this gives you the chance to develop coping mechanisms and identify unhelpful patterns in your behaviour and thinking. For some, their increased confidence and mood may last well beyond the duration of their treatment.