ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist if the diagnosis is made. However the NHS is currently experiencing shortages of several central nervous system stimulants and ADHD medicines.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing problems and a rising global demand. The shortage is expected to be solved between December 2023 and October 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name of a mixture of amphetamine salts. It's a potent stimulant that when used correctly aids people suffering from ADHD concentrate, stay on task and control their impulses. It's prescribed to treat ADHD, and also narcolepsy.
It was the first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat both of these conditions. It is a central nerve stimulant that increases norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters within the brain. The higher levels of these chemicals assist with concentration, and also boost alertness in people with the disorder narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to those suffering from ADHD in tablets or liquid. Adderall is a medication that can be taken regularly or as needed to alleviate symptoms. Adderall users can be afflicted with side effects, such as headaches, dry mouth, and stomach upset. Some people may develop a tolerance to the medication and will need to take more than their doctor recommends to get the same results.
Adderall is not recommended for people with certain heart conditions. They can increase the heart rate and increase anxiety, which can be dangerous for those with heart issues or the history of heart disease. People with glaucoma or liver or kidney problems should talk to their doctors before taking it. Adderall may also cause birth defects in babies born to women who took it during pregnancy. Studies on animals have revealed that the drug can cause birth defects in the fetus. However, there is not enough information to know how it will affect the foetus.
Stimulants can slow growth in children, but the change is not significant and children typically catch up when they turn adults. They can also cause psychosis, which is a mix between hallucinations, delusions and other symptoms.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it has a significant abuse potential. People who don't have ADHD can use Adderall to feel more energetic and shed weight. People who abuse it will often mix it with other drugs, such as cocaine, to increase the effects. It may also show up in drug screening tests for athletics or work.
3. Concerta
Concerta, just like Adderall and Vyvanse is an extended-release medicine that is taken in the early morning. It is believed to work by increasing levels of two neurotransmitters that are found in the brain, norepinephrine and dopamine. This can help improve concentration as well as other symptoms of ADHD. It is crucial to take this medication according to the dosage prescribed by a doctor. Do not increase the dose without a physician's approval, as doing so can increase the risk of side effects. Store Concerta at room temperature and in a location that is safe of children.
Insomnia is another frequent side effect that can make it hard to fall asleep. adhd no medication is suggested that you try to take it at the same time every day. You can keep track of your medication by using an alarm clock or pill reminder. This drug is in pregnancy category C. It should only be used when the benefits outweigh any risks to the developing baby. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate for a long time, as it could lead to dependence.
It is also important to note that this medication can cause tics, which are repeated actions or sounds that are not intention to. This can be characterized by eye blinks, head bobbing and humming. Most people don't experience this, but If you do, talk to your doctor.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults and children. It contains the active ingredient dexmethylphenidate and is a stimulant for the central nervous system to decrease the risk of impulsivity and improve focus in those suffering from ADHD.
Focalin as well as other stimulant medications can help boost the levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in the communication between nerve cells, and improve vigilance, attention and impulse control. This makes them efficient ADHD treatment drugs. The dosage of Focalin varies depending on the age of the patient. It may be either short or long acting. The tablets that have a short-acting mechanism are referred to as immediate-release whereas the longer-acting tablets are known as extended-release.
Long-term use of Focalin can have some serious negative side effects. The drug has been linked to depression, particularly for those who are not predisposed to it. The reason for this is that the medication can cause neurotransmitters to remain elevated for a long time. This is why Joanna Moncrieff, professor of psychiatry at University College London has spent most of her time contesting what she believes to be excessively prescribing stimulant medication to treat mental disorders.
Certain people may also experience psychomotor retardation and agitation due to Focalin. Some individuals may feel temporarily energized and happy. Other typical Focalin side effects include sleeplessness and the feeling of drowsiness. In addition, patients may occasionally develop tolerance to the drug and they need higher doses and higher dosages to achieve the same effect. This can lead to dependence and addiction.
In order to minimize the risk of Focalin addiction, doctors should regularly reassess their patients' risks and look for indications and signs of misuse, abuse or addiction. They should tell patients to keep the medication in a safe place and not give it to anyone else. They must also inform patients of the dangers of accidental overdoses as well as how to dispose of any medication that is not used.
Unlike other ADHD drugs, Focalin does not take effects immediately. The effects of the drug appear around two to three hours after taking it and last for up to four hours. This is why it is often prescribed along with other non-medication therapies, like cognitive behavioral therapy.