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ADHD Medication in the UK The medications for ADHD assist in reducing symptoms by boosting activity in specific areas of the brain. They also increase the production of neurotransmitters that are deficient in people with ADHD. In the UK the UK, stimulant drugs are the most frequently prescribed medication for adult ADHD. They help by increasing brain activity in areas that are involved in impulse control and attention. Stimulants There are two types of medications that are approved for use in the UK to treat adult ADHD that treat ADHD in adults: stimulants and non-stimulant drugs. Stimulants, which enhance brain activity in areas that regulate behavior and attention are usually the first option. These include methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin) and lisdexamfetamine (brand names including Vyvanse). adhd and depression medication can be taken multiple times per day as a pill that acts quickly or every week in the form of an extended-acting pill that is released into the bloodstream throughout the day. At first the dosage of the medication could require adjustment and monitored (titrated) to determine the dosage that is most effective for you. Stimulants have a long tradition of use, both medically and as recreational drugs. During the 1930s amphetamines were often employed by truck drivers, students and sportspeople to boost their energy levels. Amphetamines pose a risk and can be abused. They are often abused because they make people feel good and stimulate the brain in ways that lead to addiction. The most frequently reported side-effects of stimulants are a loss of appetite, sleep disturbances and issues with digestion or stomach. These issues can be addressed by altering the dosage or timing. They are generally tolerated by most adults. Children may experience more severe adverse effects, including weight gain, tics and crankiness. Non-stimulant ADHD medication works in a different way than stimulants and may take a while to start working. Clonidine and guanfacine (brand names Catapres and Intuniv) are both alpha agonists which work by stimulating specific receptors in the brain to increase concentration, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity, and reduce behavioural issues such as aggression and tics. They can be used as a supplement to ADHD stimulant medications or used on their own by children between the ages of 6-17. Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) is a non-stimulant medication for ADHD that increases levels of the neurotransmitter Noradrenaline to improve impulse control and improve concentration. It can be prescribed on by itself, but it is usually combined with guanfacine in children. These drugs are less likely to cause the same side effects as stimulants, but can cause a variety of them such as headaches and difficulty sleeping. Atomoxetine Some children are not responsive to stimulant drugs like Adderall and Ritalin. Nonstimulants are available for children with ADHD. They boost the communication between brain regions, nerves and brain regions. This helps children manage impulsivity and concentrate better. Nonstimulant ADHD medicines contain different active ingredients in contrast to stimulants, and do not have a potential for abuse as they aren't controlled substances. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera, is a non-stimulant medication that can be used to treat ADHD in children, adults and teens. It's an antidepressant, which has been shown to reduce symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of a chemical that is present in the brain called noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is a chemical that sends messages between brain cells. It also plays a role in impulsivity, motivation, and attention. Due to its unique mechanism of action, atomoxetine does not have the same side effects as other antidepressants such as Wellbutrin and Effexor. It can be prescribed to children as young as 5 years old. It is administered once or twice daily in tablet form. Atomoxetine offers a stable, 24 hour control over ADHD symptoms. It can reduce the severity of problems at night when the stimulants have worn off. Both guanfacine and Clonidine are available as non-stimulant ADHD medication. These are given to children who haven't had a positive response to stimulant medication or have trouble dealing with its adverse effects. They can be combined with stimulants such as Adderall XR, (amphetamines salts), to treat ADHD more effectively. If you or your child is being treated with an non-stimulant ADHD medication, make sure you follow your GP's directions carefully. They'll likely recommend starting with small doses, and then gradually increasing the dosage over time. They'll also ask about any other medications that you or your child is taking to ensure that there aren't any interactions. You'll need to schedule regular appointments with your GP and let them know if you experience any adverse reactions or have concerns. They may change the dosage or suggest alternative treatments such as talk therapy. Unlicensed Medication The medication used to treat ADHD in adults is a range of stimulant and non-stimulant drugs. Psychologists can also prescribe drugs that are off label (these are medications that are licensed for another condition, but have evidence emerging for their effectiveness in adults with ADHD). These medications are typically antidepressants, such as bupropion and venflaxine, both of which have been shown to have some positive effects in the disorder and are well-tolerated at lower doses than those found in the approved treatments. Sometimes, unlicensed medications are prescribed for a patient when there is a genuine special clinical need and the prescription cannot be fulfilled with a licensed alternative. This is for patients whose normal medication is not available due to supply disruption, and patients who require liquid formulations of an approved capsule or tablet due to intolerance or allergy. Unlicensed medications are usually described as'specials' however this term could also apply to medicines which are not on the label, or that are prepared or sold in a manner which is not covered by the prescription for the medicine. For instance, some examples include crushing tablets to make them easier for patients to swallow. Others could include adding liquid to tablets or capsules that are licensed to create a mixture that is administered via injection. In general healthcare professionals will only employ unlicensed drugs as a last resort when they believe that there is no licensed alternative available. They will carefully evaluate the various options available to meet the individual needs of each patient. They will also regularly review treatments and outcomes taking into consideration both clinical experience and new approved treatments. It is essential that any medicine not licensed to treat patients is safe and effective, and the reason for prescribing it is recorded in the patient's records. If a person has any adverse reactions from an off-label treatment they must be reported to the MHRA's Yellow Card scheme. The information provided will be used to update the medication's MHRA marketing authorisation and to ensure that future prescriptions for the medication are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A therapist working with you to assist you to understand your symptoms and discover ways to manage. They will also be able to offer advice and support on how you can change your way of thinking and behave to feel more optimistic about life. It is vital to complete the recommended amount of sessions as this will help you feel better. Medications help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters in your brain. These chemicals allow your neurons transmit messages, allowing you to concentrate your thoughts and avoid distractions. There are two kinds of ADHD medications: stimulants and other non-stimulants. They work in different ways, however they all increase the amount of neurotransmitters within your brain. In the UK there are a variety of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. The most commonly used is methylphenidate. It is available in both immediate-release tablets (small doses that are taken between 2 and 3 times a day) and modified-release tablets (taken once a day but released throughout the day). These aren't a cure but can help you manage an impulsive behaviour and help you focus. They are usually well-tolerated but your specialist will monitor you closely to ensure you receive the right dose and do not experience any side consequences. Medication can take a few weeks to reach the optimal level and may have to be adjusted (changed regularly) in order to find what works best for you. Non-stimulant drugs like atomoxetine which is available through prescription only, may be more efficient than stimulants and are not as prone to the possibility of addiction. They have a stronger evidence basis, however they aren't as well-tolerated and some people experience problems with their appetite, memory or sleep. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress and determine whether you should continue taking the atomoxetine drug or switch to a different treatment. Therapy and medication are not permanent solutions for those with ADHD. However, they can enhance your ability to manage your symptoms and lead an enjoyable life. Combining medications with regular therapy sessions will help you gain the most benefit from your treatment. You'll learn coping strategies and identify unhelpful patterns of behaviour and thought. For some, their improved confidence and mood may last beyond the end of their treatment.