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ADHD Medication in the UK The medications for ADHD help to reduce symptoms by boosting activity in certain areas of the brain. They also boost the production of neurotransmitters which are insufficient in people with ADHD. Stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed treatment for adults with ADHD in the UK. They increase activity in areas of the brain involved in concentration and impulse control. Stimulants There are two kinds of drugs that are licensed in the UK to treat adult ADHD that treat ADHD in adults: stimulants and non-stimulant drugs. The stimulants are typically considered the first option due to their ability to increase activity in areas of the brain that help control attention and behavior. They include methylphenidate, known as Ritalin, and Lisdexamfetamine. They can be administered several times a day in a tablet that acts as a short-acting one or taken daily in a long-acting tablet that is released into the bloodstream over the course of a day. In the beginning the dose of the medication might require adjustment and monitored (titrated) to determine the dose that works for you. Stimulants have a long-standing history of use both medicinally and as recreational drugs. During the 1930s amphetamines were often used 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 brain in ways that can could lead to addiction. The most common side-effects of stimulants are loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and issues with the digestive system or stomach. These issues can be addressed by adjusting the dosage or timing. Most adults tolerate them well. However, children may have more severe side-effects including tics, weight loss and irritability. Non-stimulant ADHD medications work differently than stimulants, and it may take some time before they begin to show results. Clonidine and Guanfacine, also known as Catapres and Intuniv are alpha agonists. They are able to stimulate the receptors of the mind to improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and behavioral issues like aggression and tics. They can be used as a complement to ADHD stimulant medication or taken on their own by children between the ages of 6-17. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera is a non-stimulant drug that improves concentration and impulse control by increasing levels of noradrenaline in the brain. It is a medication that can be prescribed on by itself, but it is usually used in conjunction with guanfacine for children. These drugs are less likely to cause the same adverse effects as stimulants, however they can still cause a range of them such as headaches and difficulty sleeping. Atomoxetine While stimulant medications like Ritalin and Adderall are usually recommended for kids with ADHD Some children don't respond to these medications. Nonstimulants are a possibility for children who aren't. They improve the signaling between nerves and the regions of the brain, assisting children to concentrate better and manage impulsivity. Nonstimulant ADHD medications contain different active ingredients to stimulants, and do not have the potential for abuse and therefore aren't controlled substances. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is one of the newest non-stimulant medicines used to treat ADHD in children, adults and teens. It's an antidepressant, which has been proven to lessen the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of a chemical in the brain that is known as noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is a chemical that sends messages between brain cells. It's also involved in motivation, impulsivity and attention. Atomoxetine, because of its unique mechanism of action is not associated with the same adverse effects as other antidepressants such as Wellbutrin or Effexor. It is available to children as young as 5 years old. medication for adult adhd is administered once or twice a day in tablet form. Atomoxetine produces stable 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms, and may help reduce problems in the evening when the effects of some stimulants diminish. The FDA has also approved guanfacineXR and Clonidine XR both of which are also available as non-stimulant ADHD medications. They are prescribed to children who have not responded to stimulant medication or have trouble dealing with its negative effects. They can be administered by themselves or in conjunction with stimulants like Adderall XR (amphetamine salts), for a more effective treatment of ADHD. If you or your child is being treated with an non-stimulant ADHD medication, ensure that you follow your GP's directions carefully. They will probably suggest starting off with low doses, and then gradually increasing the dosage. They will also inquire about any other medications that you or your child are taking to ensure that there aren't any 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 stimulant and non-stimulant medications. Psychiatrists may also prescribe medicines which are 'off-label' for the condition (these are medications that are licensed for different ailments, but are now showing evidence of their effectiveness in adults with ADHD). These medications are typically antidepressants like bupropion or Venflaxine. They have shown some benefit for the condition, and are tolerated at lower doses. Unlicensed medicines may be prescribed to a patient in the event of a clinical need that cannot be fulfilled by a licensed medication. This includes patients whose usual medication is unavailable due to supply disruption or other reasons, or patients who require the use of a liquid version of a licensed tablet or capsule due to reasons like intolerance or allergy. Unlicensed medicines are often called'specials' however this term could be used to describe medicines that are 'off-label', or have been made or sold in a manner which is not covered by the medicine's licence. For instance, some examples include crushing tablets in order to make them easier for the patient to swallow. Others may include adding liquid to a licensed capsule or tablet to create a mixture that can be administered by injection. Healthcare professionals generally employ unlicensed drugs as a last option and when they believe there is no alternative that is licensed. They will carefully examine a wide range of options, to meet the needs of each patient. They will also examine the outcomes and treatment routinely taking into account their clinical experience and the availability of new licensed treatments. It is vital that any medication not licensed to treat a patient is safe and efficient. The reason for prescribing the medication must be documented in the patient record. If a patient experiences adverse effects due to an off-label medication, they should be reported via the MHRA's Yellow Card scheme. This information will be used by the MHRA to revise the marketing authorisation for the medicine and ensure future prescriptions are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A talk therapist will work with you to understand the symptoms you are experiencing and help find ways to manage them. They can also offer you advice and support about how to alter your way of thinking and behavior to feel more positive. It is essential to complete the amount of sessions your therapist suggests as this will help in you feeling better. The amount of neurotransmitters that are present in your brain can reduce ADHD symptoms. These chemicals help your neurons transmit messages, allowing you to focus your thoughts and avoid distractions. There are two types of ADHD medication that include stimulants and non-stimulants. They work in different ways, but all increase the availability of neurotransmitters in your brain. In the UK there are a variety of medications that can be used to treat ADHD. The most common medication is methylphenidate. It is available in immediate-release tablets that are taken in small doses 2 to 3 times per day. Or as modified-release tablets, which are taken once a week but released throughout the course of the day. These medications are not an answer, but they can assist you control your the impulsive behavior and focus. They are generally well tolerated however, your doctor will closely monitor your progress to ensure that you get the correct dosage and do not experience any adverse side effects. It can take several weeks to reach the best level and may need to be adjusted (changed frequently) in order to find the most effective dosage for you. Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine, which is available through prescription only, are more efficient than stimulants, and don't have the same possibility of addiction. They are more effective but not as well tolerated. Certain people might experience issues with appetite, memory, or sleep. Your specialist will monitor your progress and determine whether or not you should continue with Atomoxetine or switch to another treatment. The use of therapy or medication is not permanent solutions for people with ADHD. They can help you cope with your symptoms, and live a fulfilling lifestyle. Combining therapy with medication sessions will allow you to get the most benefit from your treatment. You'll learn coping strategies and recognize patterns that are not helpful to your behavior and thinking. Certain people's improved mood and self-confidence can last even after treatment.