ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist if they are able to make a diagnosis. The NHS is currently facing a shortage of central nervous system stimulants, which includes ADHD medications.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing problems and increased global demand. It is expected to be resolved between October and December 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is a brand name for a mixture of amphétamine salts. It is a powerful stimulant that when used correctly, helps people with ADHD remain focused, manage their impulses, and stay focused. It is prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and also narcolepsy.
It was the first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat both conditions. It's a central nervous system stimulant that increases the amount of norepinephrine as well as other neurotransmitters found in the brain. These chemicals improve concentration and alertness for those who suffer from narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to people with ADHD in tablets or in liquid form. Adderall can be taken regularly or when required to alleviate symptoms. Adderall users can experience side effects such as dry mouth, headaches, and stomach upset. Some people may develop a tolerance to the medication and will need to take more than what their doctor recommends to get the same results.
People with certain heart disorders shouldn't take stimulants, like Adderall. They can increase the heart rate and cause anxiety, which is a risk for people who have heart problems or a history of heart disease. Before taking Adderall with glaucoma, liver or kidney issues should consult their doctor. Adderall could also cause birth defects to babies born to mothers who used it during pregnancy. There isn't enough information about how the drug might affect a fetus, but studies in animals have demonstrated negative effects.
The effects of stimulants can slow growth in children, but the effect isn't significant and the majority of children are able to catch up once they reach adulthood. They can also cause psychosis which is a mix of delusions and hallucinations.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it has a high risk of abuse. It can be abused by people who don't suffer from ADHD and who take it to boost their energy levels or lose weight. People who abuse it tend to mix it with other drugs, such as cocaine, to enhance the effects. It is also a factor during drug tests for sports or at work.
3. Concerto
Concerta, like Adderall and Vyvanse is an extended-release medication that is taken in the morning. It is believed to work by increasing levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. This can improve concentration and other symptoms of ADHD. It is essential to use this medication as recommended by your physician. Do not increase the dose without a prescription from a doctor in case you cause more side effects. Store Concerta at room temperature and in a place that is out of reach of children.
Another common side effect of this medication is insomnia that can make it difficult to fall asleep. It is recommended to try to take it at the same time each day. You can keep track of your medication with a timer or pill reminder. This drug is a pregnancy category C, meaning that it is only used when the benefits outweigh the risks for a developing baby. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate over an extended period of time, since it can lead to dependence.
It is also important to note that this medication can cause tics, which are repeated movements or sounds made without intending to. This can include head bobbing, eye blinking and humming. This is something most people will not experience, but if it does happen to you, talk to your doctor about it.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a treatment option for both children and adults to treat ADHD. It contains dexmethylphenidate, which stimulates the central nervous system and decreases the impulsivity of ADHD patients.
Like other stimulant medications, Focalin can help increase levels of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters improve concentration, vigilance and impulse control. They are responsible for the communication between nerve cells. They are therefore effective ADHD medications. Focalin dosage varies according to the age of the patient, and can be either short-acting or long-acting. The tablets that have a short-acting mechanism are referred to as immediate-release, while the more powerful tablets are known as extended-release.
Long-term usage of Focalin may cause serious negative side negative effects. Focalin has been linked with depression, specifically in those who are not predisposed. This is because the drug causes neurotransmitters to stay elevated for a prolonged time. This is why Joanna Moncrieff, professor of psychiatry at University College London has spent much of her career contesting what she believes to be over prescribing stimulant medication to treat mental disorders.
Focalin can also trigger psychomotor retardation or agitation in certain people. There is also a temporary feeling of being energised and mildly euphoric. Focalin can cause sleepiness and sleepiness. In addition, patients can sometimes develop tolerance to the drug and they require higher and higher doses to achieve the same effect. This can lead to dependence and addiction.
In order to minimize the chance of Focalin addiction, doctors should regularly reassess their patients' risks and look for signs and symptoms of misuse, abuse or addiction. They should advise patients to store the drug in a secure location and not to give it to anyone else. They should also inform patients about the dangers of accidental overdoses and how to dispose of any medication that is not used.
Unlike other ADHD medications, Focalin does not take effects immediately. More suggestions of the drug appear around two to three hours after taking it and last for up to four hours. This is the reason it's frequently prescribed in conjunction with other non-medication therapies, like cognitive behavior therapy.