ADHD UK Medication
ADHD medications are 'controlled drugs' and require a specialist clinician to prescribe them. These are referred to as stimulants. They include the family of methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta etc) amphetamine salts, as well as atomoxetine.
Talk therapy and other non-medical treatments is generally recommended as well. While medications can help manage symptoms, they do not change negative ways of coping.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed ADHD drug in the UK. It is also used for narcolepsy, and other mental disorders. It is available as immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. The extended-release capsules are less soluble and have a longer-lasting impact. It is prescribed for a short period of time and the dosage is determined by the individual's symptoms.
In general, stimulant medications boost the activity of areas of the brain that regulate attention and behavior. They are sometimes referred to as "cognitive enhancements" and help people pay attention, stay focused and stay on task. Methylphenidate boosts activity in the areas of the brain that are not active for ADHD patients. It is also a central nervous system stimulant and can enhance the way your body uses energy. It is sold under the brand name Ritalin.
A recent study revealed that prescriptions for methylphenidate have increased eightfold in the UK over the past two decades. This is an important health issue for the public and suggests that there could be overdiagnosis of ADHD in the UK. Researchers looked at data from the Clinical Practice Research Database (CPRD) which includes the details of all NHS patients who had a GP in England from 1992 to 2013. The study focused on the use of drugs classified as CNS stimulants and approved for ADHD in the British National Formulary. This includes methylphenidate, atomoxetine (including methylphenidate instant-release and methylphenidate prolonged release) as well as dexamphetamine and its derivative lisdexamfetamine as well modafinil. Pemoline is no longer licensed in the UK because of liver toxicity and therefore was excluded from the study.
Researchers have found that methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed drug for children aged 5 or younger. About a quarter of children have been prescribed this drug. This is despite the fact that the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines recommend that the medication be offered as the first-line treatment for children suffering from severe symptoms of ADHD. Alternatively, they recommend that parents consider psychological intervention instead.
The results suggest that the increase in methylphenidate prescriptions is partially due to the availability of mental health services but may also reflect the increasing recognition of ADHD in younger people and the increasing desire to seek treatment and diagnosis. There are also likely to instances of improper prescribing methylphenidate to adolescents and young adults.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline receptor inhibitor (SNRI) used to treat ADHD in children and adolescents. It can also be used to treat comorbid signs of anxiety. It is not a stimulant and has a low risk of abuse. It has been proven to be effective in clinical studies and is a great option for children who have not responded well to stimulants. The long-term safety of this product is not known.
Atomoxetine is different from other ADHD drugs. It raises the levels of a chemical that is present in the brain that is known as noradrenaline. This chemical is responsible for transmitting messages between nerve cells, and increasing its levels can increase concentration and control impulses. It comes in capsule form and is taken a single every day. This medication is often taken in conjunction with other treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychological therapy and educational assistance.
In one study, atomoxetine proved to be more effective in treating ADHD symptoms than a placebo. It is well-tolerated and has a lower side effect risk than stimulants particularly in children. Additionally, a recent cost-effectiveness analysis showed that treatment algorithms that included the initial use of atomoxetine were more expensive than those that used methylphenidate or dexamfetamine.
see this site can cause serious side effects like suicidal feelings. Talk to your doctor immediately if your child displays these symptoms. A lot of medicines like monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), like phenelzine, may interact with atomoxetine. If your child takes MAOIs ask your doctor for an alternative.
Certain people may experience fatigue, stomach pain, or a loss in appetite. These effects are typically moderate, but they can be severe in some cases. Atomoxetine has been linked with a rare and serious condition known as hepatic impairment. This condition can result in liver failure. This can be fatal in some instances. Therefore, it is important to check with your doctor prior to taking this medicine if you have a history of liver problems or any other health issues.
Inform your doctor about all the medications you take such as herbal and complementary treatments. This includes prescription and non-prescription medications, vitamins, and minerals. It is essential to inform your doctor if you take any other ADHD medication, like lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate. Tell your doctor if either you or your child is pregnant, breastfeeding or considering becoming pregnant.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine is a stimulant that is used to treat ADHD in adults. It is able to improve concentration and attention, as well as reduce the impulsive behavior, and improve mood. It can be taken orally or as a solution or capsule. It is important to take it regularly and as prescribed by your doctor. If you stop taking too much or stop abruptly could cause problems. Do not drive or operate machinery if you are taking this medication. Also, you should not carry the medication without having a prescription. Always have evidence that you were prescribed the medication. It is also recommended to carry your medication to work or to school with you, in case it's required during the day.
Dexamfetamine is to be used with caution in patients with epilepsy history as it could lower the threshold of convulsive activity. It should not be used in patients who have an history of cardiac or blood vessel disorders, such as coronary heart condition or high blood pressure. It is not recommended to use during pregnancy or nursing. It is excreted into breast milk and consequently, there is a risk to the infant.
If symptoms of ADHD get worse, a check-up with the doctor is recommended. This will help determine if the condition is controlled through medication and if the dosages are appropriate. This will allow the doctor to alter dosages or switch to alternative treatments if necessary.
A doctor will begin 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 also a good idea to take the tablets at the same time each day, ideally with food. This will help you remember when to take them and lower the chance of missing doses.
Psychoeducation and therapy may be beneficial to people suffering from ADHD, in addition to medication. This can help children and adults to manage their condition. Therapy can also help them deal with additional issues, such as anxiety or depression. Psychoeducation is a mix of professional and educational materials Therapy can be cognitive or behavioural.
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. It is also used off-label to treat symptoms of ADHD in adults 18 years of age or older. However, it's not specifically approved for this use and should only be used under a doctor's supervision. It can only be purchased on prescription and must be stored in a safe place out of reach of children. Follow the instructions on the prescription label. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for clarification if you don't understand any part of the medication.
The NHS website describes modafinil as a central nerve system stimulant that can prevent excessive sleeping throughout the day. Modafinil is prescribed for the treatment of narcolepsy but it has been extensively used to treat people suffering from Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and fatigue caused 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 found that one in five students have taken an "smart drug" to boost their concentration during their exams. Jack Rivlin, 24, editor of the student newspaper The Tab in Farringdon, London reported to BBC Newsbeat that he had purchased modafinil from an offshore website for PS130 last year to help him through his revision.
Although he claims to not believe modafinil actually makes him smarter, he admits it has helped him to keep up with his notes and pass his exam. These aren't miracle cures, and they can cause severe 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. Modafinil can also interact with certain medications, such as antidepressants and some sedatives. You could also develop withdrawal symptoms and become dependent on the medication if you suddenly stop taking it.
Like atomoxetine and methylphenidate modafinil is classified as a class B drug, which means that it is illegal to possess or supply. If you're caught, you'll face up to five years in prison.