ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist if a diagnosis is made. The NHS is currently facing a shortage of central nervous system stimulants, such as ADHD medications.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand. The shortage is expected to be solved between the months of December 2023 and October 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name of a mixture of amphétamine salts. It's a potent stimulant that when taken in the right way can help people with ADHD concentrate, stay on task and control their impulses. It is prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
The FDA approved the first medication that could treat both conditions. It is a central nervous stimulant that boosts norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters in the brain. The higher levels of these chemicals assist in concentration and boost alertness in people with narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to patients suffering from ADHD in tablet form or liquid. Adderall is a medication that can be taken on a daily basis or when required to manage symptoms. Adderall users may be afflicted with side effects, such as dry mouth, headaches, and stomach upset. Some people might develop a tolerance for the drug and have to take more than their doctor recommends to achieve the same effects.
People suffering from certain heart conditions shouldn't take stimulants, such as Adderall. They can increase the heart rate and cause anxiety, which is dangerous for people with heart problems or an history of heart disease. People suffering from glaucoma, kidney or liver issues should also talk to their doctor before taking Adderall. Adderall can also cause birth defects in babies born to women who have taken it during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown that the drug can cause birth defects in a foetus. However, there is not enough data to know the impact it could have on the pregnant fetus.
Stimulants can slow growth in children, but the difference is not significant and children typically catch up by the time they turn adults. They can also cause psychosis which is a mix of hallucinations and delusions.
Adderall is a Schedule II drug, meaning it has a high potential for abuse. It is abused by people who don't have ADHD who are using it to boost their energy levels or lose weight. People who use it illegally will often mix it with other substances like cocaine to boost the effects. It is also detected during drug tests for work or sports.
3. Concerto
Similar to Adderall and Vyvanse Concerta is an extended-release medication that is taken every day in the morning. It is believed to work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. This may improve concentration as well as other ADHD symptoms. It is essential to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase your dosage without consulting your doctor. This can cause adverse negative effects. It is also recommended to store Concerta in a safe place away from reach of children and at temperatures that are at room temperature.
Insomnia is another frequent side effect, which can make it hard to fall asleep. It is suggested that you try to take it at the same time every day. A pill reminder or medication timer could help keep you on track. This drug is in pregnancy category C. It should only be used if the benefits outweigh the risks for the baby's development. It is not advised to use methylphenidate for a long time, as it may lead to dependency.
It is important to keep in mind that this medication may cause tics, which are repetitive motions or sounds that are made without intention to. This can be characterized by eye blinks or head bobbing, as well as humming. This is something that most people will not have however, should it happen to you, consult your doctor about it.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a drug that can be used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. It contains the active ingredient dexmethylphenidate. It works by stimulating the central nervous system to decrease the risk of impulsivity and improve focus in people with ADHD.
Similar to other stimulant drugs, Focalin can help increase levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and neopinephrine within the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in the communication between nerve cells, and increase attention, vigilance and control of impulses. They are therefore effective ADHD medications. Focalin dosage varies according to the age of the patient and may be short-acting or long-acting. The tablets that are short-acting are known as immediate-release whereas the longer-acting tablets are known as extended-release.
Long-term usage of Focalin can have some serious side negative effects. The drug has been linked to depression particularly in those who aren't predisposed to it. This is because the drug causes neurotransmitters levels to remain high for a longer period of time. This is why Joanna Moncrieff, professor of psychotherapy at University College London has spent most of her time contesting what she believes to be the over-prescription of stimulant medications to treat mental disorders.
Focalin can also trigger psychomotor agitation or retardation in certain people. There is also a temporary feeling of being somewhat euphoric and energetic. non prescription adhd medication can also cause sleeplessness and sleepiness. In addition, patients may sometimes develop tolerance to the drug, where they require higher and higher doses to get the same effect. This could result in dependence and addiction.
To reduce the risk of Focalin misuse doctors should review regularly the risks for their patients and look for signs of misuse, abuse or addiction. They should advise patients to store the drug in a secure place and not give it to anyone else. They should also educate patients about the risks of accidental overdoses and provide them with instructions on how to dispose of unneeded medicine.
Unlike other ADHD medication, Focalin does not take effect right away. The effects of Focalin begin to show in the first three hours following the dose, and can last up to four hours. This is why it's commonly prescribed with other non-medical therapies like cognitive behavior therapy.