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ADHD Medication in the UK The drugs for ADHD reduce symptoms by enhancing brain activity in specific areas. They also increase neurotransmitters that are lacking in people with ADHD. Stimulant medications are the most frequently prescribed medication for adult ADHD in the UK. They are effective by enhancing activity in areas of the brain involved with attention and impulse control. Stimulants In the UK there are two types of medication that are approved for adult ADHD treatment including stimulants and nonstimulant drugs. Stimulants are usually used as the first choice because they increase activity in the areas of the brain that help control attention and behavior. These include methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, and the lisdexamfetamine. These tablets can be taken multiple times per 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 might require adjustment and monitored (titrated) in order to determine the dose that works for you. Stimulants are utilized as medical and recreational drugs. In the 1930s, amphetamines were often employed by truck drivers, students, and athletes to boost their energy levels. Amphetamines are dangerous and can be abused. They are used to can make people feel good and can stimulate the mind in ways that can lead them to addiction. I Am Psychiatry , difficulties sleeping and issues with the stomach or digestive system are some of the most frequent negative effects of stimulants. Adjustments to the dosage or frequency of the medication usually reduce these problems. They are generally well-tolerated by the majority of adults. Children may experience more serious adverse effects, including weight gain, tics and irritability. Non-stimulant ADHD medication works differently than stimulants and may take a while before it starts 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, decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity, as well as reduce behavioral issues like aggression and tics. They can be used on their own or as a complement in conjunction with ADHD stimulant medication in kids aged 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 concentration. It is a medication that can be used on its own however it is often combined with guanfacine in children. These medications are less likely to cause the same adverse effects as stimulants, but may still trigger a variety of them such as headaches and difficulty sleeping. Atomoxetine Some children are not responsive to stimulant drugs like Adderall and Ritalin. There are alternatives to stimulants for children who aren't. They improve the signaling between nerves and regions of the brain, which help children focus more easily and control the impulsivity. Nonstimulant ADHD medicines use different active ingredients from stimulants, and do not have the potential for abuse as they aren't controlled substances. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is one of the newer non-stimulant medicines that treat ADHD in children, adults and teens. It is an antidepressant, and has been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount of a chemical called noradrenaline within the brain. Noradrenaline is an ingredient that transmits messages between brain cells. It's also involved in motivation, impulsivity and attention. Due to its unique mechanism of action, atomoxetine isn't able to suffer from the same adverse effects as other antidepressants such as Wellbutrin and Effexor. It is a prescription drug for children as young as five and is taken orally every day, either once or twice in tablet form. Atomoxetine provides stable, 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms, which means it could help to reduce the symptoms in the evening when the effects of certain stimulants wear off. The FDA has also approved guanfacine XR and Clonidine XR, both which are available as non-stimulant ADHD medication. They are typically prescribed to children who haven't reacted to stimulant medications or who have issues with their side 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 instructions carefully. They will likely suggest starting with low doses and gradually increasing them. They'll also ask about any other medications you or your child is taking so they can check for interactions. You will need to make regular appointments with your GP and inform them of any side effects or concerns. They may alter your dosage, or suggest alternative treatments like talking therapy. Unlicensed Medication The medication used to treat ADHD in adults is a range of non-stimulant and stimulant drugs. The psychiatric physician can also prescribe medications that are off-label (these are drugs which are licensed for another condition, but are being evaluated for their effectiveness in adults with ADHD). These medications are typically antidepressants such as Venflaxine or bupropion. They have been shown to provide some benefit in the condition, and are tolerated at lower doses. Unlicensed medicines can be prescribed to patients when there is a genuine medical need that is not satisfied by a licensed medicine. Patients whose usual medication has been temporarily stopped due to a disruption of supply, or those who require a liquid form of a licensed capsule or tablet due to allergies or intolerances could be affected in a variety of ways. Unlicensed medicines can be described as “specials”. This term can also be used to refer to medicines that are “off-label” or have been prepared or provided in a manner not covered by the licence. Examples include crushing tablets in order to make them easier for patients to swallow. Others may include adding liquid to a licensed capsule or tablet to make a mixture that can be administered by injection. Healthcare professionals will generally only use unlicensed medications as a last resort when they believe there is no licensed alternative. They will carefully consider a wide range of options, to meet the needs of each patient. They will also review the results and treatment regularly taking into account clinical experience as well as the availability of new treatments that are licensed. It is essential that any medicine not licensed to treat a patient is safe and effective and the reason for prescribing it is documented in the patient's records. Inform about any adverse effects a patient may have from an off-label medication by using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. This information is used to amend the medicine's MHRA marketing authorization, and also to ensure that future prescriptions for the drug are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A therapist who works with you will help you understand your symptoms and help you discover ways to manage them. They will also provide guidance and advice on how to change your ways of thinking and acting in order to feel more positive. It is important to complete the amount of sessions your therapist recommends as this will make your feeling more positive. The amount of neurotransmitters that are present in your brain can help reduce ADHD symptoms. These chemicals allow your neurons transmit messages, allowing you to focus your thoughts and avoid distractions. There are two kinds of ADHD medications which include stimulants as well as other non-stimulants. All of them improve the availability neurotransmitters within your brain. There are several medications licenced in the UK to treat ADHD. The most popular medication is methylphenidate. It is available in immediate-release tablets, which are taken in small doses 2 to 3 times daily. Or as modified-release tablets that are taken weekly, but released throughout the duration of the day. These aren't an effective cure, but they can help you to control the impulsive behavior and focus. They are generally well tolerated, but your specialist will monitor closely to ensure that you receive the correct dose and don't experience any adverse side consequences. It can take several weeks to reach the best level and may need to be titrated (changed regularly) in order to find what works best for you. Non-stimulant medicines 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 are more effective, but not as well tolerated. Some patients may have issues with appetite, memory or sleep. Your doctor will be able to monitor your progress and decide whether or not you should continue with atomoxetine or change to another treatment. People suffering from ADHD cannot find permanent solutions with treatment or medication. However, they can improve your ability to cope with your symptoms and live an enjoyable life. Combining therapy with medication sessions will allow you to get the most benefit from your treatment. You'll learn strategies for coping and recognize patterns that are not helpful to your behavior and thinking. Some people's improved moods and self-confidence may last for a long time after treatment.