ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist after the diagnosis is made. The NHS is currently facing a shortage of central nervous system stimulants, including ADHD medications.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing issues and an increase in global demand. It is expected to be resolved between October and December 2023.
- Adderall
Adderall is a brand name for amphétamine salts. It is a powerful stimulant, which, when taken correctly helps people who suffer from ADHD remain focused, manage their impulses, and stay on task. It is prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
It was the first medicine to be approved by the FDA to treat both of these conditions. It's a central nervous system stimulant that boosts the amount of norepinephrine and other neurotransmitters found in the brain. These chemicals improve concentration and alertness for those with narcolepsy.
Adderall is prescribed by doctors to ADHD patients in tablet or liquid form. Adderall can be taken on a regular basis or as required to alleviate symptoms. People who use Adderall can experience side effects, like headaches, stomach upset and dry mouth. Some people may develop a tolerance to the medication and will need to take more than what their doctor recommends to achieve the same results.
People who suffer from certain heart diseases should not use stimulants, including Adderall. They can increase anxiety and increase heart rate, which can be dangerous for those suffering from heart disease or problems. People suffering from glaucoma, kidney or liver problems should also talk to their doctors before taking it. Adderall can also cause birth defects to babies born to mothers who took it during pregnancy. Studies on animals have revealed that the drug may cause birth defects in a foetus. However there isn't enough data to know the effects it has on a pregnant fetus.
Stimulants can slow the growth rate of children, but the difference is not significant and children typically catch up by the time they are adults. They can also trigger psychosis, which is a mix between hallucinations, delusions and other symptoms.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it has a high possibility of abuse. People who don't have ADHD can use Adderall to feel more energetic and lose weight. Illegal users frequently mix it with cocaine to boost the effects. It can also be detected in tests for drugs used for sports or at work.
- Concerto
Concerta, just like Adderall and Vyvanse is an extended-release drug that is taken in the morning. It is believed to work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine as well as dopamine in the brain. This improves concentration and other ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to take this medication as prescribed by a doctor. Do not increase your dosage without consulting with your doctor. This can result in adverse consequences. Store Concerta at room temperature in a place away from the reach of children.
Another side effect that is common to this medication is insomnia, which can make it difficult to fall asleep. It is recommended to take the medication at the same time each day. A reminder of your pills or a medication timer may help to keep you on track. This drug is in pregnancy category C. It should only be used if the benefits outweigh any risk to the developing baby. Long-term use of methylphenidate not recommended because it can result in dependence.
It is also important to remember that this medication can trigger tics, which are repetitive movements or sounds made without intending to. This can include eye blinking, head bobbing and humming. Most people won't experience this, but If you do, talk to your doctor.
- Focalin
Focalin can be used by adults and children to treat attention deficit disorder. It is a drug that contains the active ingredient, dexmethylphenidate. It works by stimulating the central nervous system to reduce the risk of impulsivity and improve focus in people suffering from ADHD.
Focalin as well as other stimulant drugs, can increase the levels of neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters aid in the communication between nerve cells, and enhance vigilance, attention and impulse control. Home makes them efficient ADHD treatment medications. The dosage of Focalin is dependent on the age of the patient. It can be either long- or short-acting. The short-acting tablets are called immediate-release, while the more powerful tablets are known as extended-release.
Long-term use of Focalin could cause serious adverse negative effects. The drug has been linked with depression, especially in those who aren't predisposed. Home is because the medicine increases neurotransmitters for an extended period of time. This is the reason Joanna Moncrieff, professor of psychiatry at University College London has spent most of her time fighting what she believes is excessively prescribing stimulant medication to treat mental disorders.
Focalin can cause psychomotor retardation or agitation in some people. Some people may feel temporarily energized and feeling euphoric. Other common Focalin side effects include insomnia and sleepiness. Patients may also develop tolerance to the drug, requiring higher and higher dosages to achieve the same effects. This can cause dependence and addiction.
To reduce the chance of Focalin abuse, doctors should regularly reassess the risks for their patients and be on the lookout for indications of abuse, misuse or addiction. They should advise patients to store the drug in a secure location and not to give it to anyone else. They must also inform patients of the dangers of accidental overdoses as well as how to dispose unused medication.
Contrary to other ADHD drugs, Focalin does not take effect right away. The effects of the drug start around two to three hours after taking it and last for as long as four hours. This is why it's commonly prescribed in conjunction with other non-medication therapies, like cognitive behavior therapy.