ADHD UK Medication
ADHD medications are classified as 'controlled drugs' and require a specialist doctor to prescribe them. These are referred to as stimulants and comprise the methylphenidate family (Ritalin, Concerta etc) amphetamine salts as well as atomoxetine.
Talk therapy and other non-medical treatments is often recommended. While medications can help manage symptoms, they don't change negative coping mechanisms.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed ADHD medication in the UK. It is also used to treat narcolepsy and several other psychiatric conditions. It is available as immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. The extended-release version is slower to dissolve and has long-lasting effects. It is prescribed for a short period of time and the dosage is determined by the person's symptoms.
In general, stimulant medications increase activity in brain regions that control attention and behaviour. They are often called "cognitive enhancers" and aid in helping people focus, pay attention and remain focused. Methylphenidate stimulates the activity of areas of the brain which are not active within ADHD patients. It also functions as 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 found that methylphenidate prescriptions have increased by eightfold in the UK in the last 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 the data from the Clinical Practice Research Database, which provides information about all NHS patients registered in England with a GP from 1992 until 2013. The study examined the use of drugs classified as CNS stimulants and approved for ADHD in the British National Formulary. This includes atomoxetine, methylphenidate (including immediate release methylphenidate as well as methylphenidate prolonged release) dexamphetamine, and its derivative lisdexamfetamine, as well modafinil. Pemoline, which is no longer available in the UK due to liver toxicities was not included in the study.
The researchers found that methylphenidate was the most common drug prescribed in children aged 5 and under, with more than quarter of children being prescribed it. Despite the fact that National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NIHCE) guidelines suggest medication only as an initial treatment option for children with severe ADHD symptoms and this is exactly what happened. They recommend parents think about psychological interventions.
The results suggest the rise in the number of prescriptions for methylphenidate could be partly due to the availability and accessibility of mental health services. However it could also reflect an greater awareness of ADHD among younger people as well as the desire to seek treatment and diagnose. In addition, there are likely to be instances of unintentional prescribing methylphenidate to adolescents and young adults.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline-reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used to treat ADHD in adolescents and children. It also serves as a treatment for comorbid anxiety symptoms. adhd medications for adults is not a stimulant, and it has low potential for abuse. It has been proven to be effective in clinical studies and is a viable option for children who have not had a positive response to stimulants. The long-term safety isn't known.
Atomoxetine is different from other ADHD drugs. It boosts the amount of a chemical within the brain called noradrenaline. This chemical transmits messages between nerve cells and increasing its levels can improve concentration and help control impulses. It is available in capsule form and is taken a few times a day. This medication is often taken in combination with other treatments such as psychotherapy, cognitive therapy, and educational support.
In one study, atomoxetine was found to be more effective in treating ADHD symptoms than a placebo. It is well-tolerated and has a lower risk of side effect risk than stimulants, particularly in children. A recent cost-effectiveness study showed that treatment protocols that used atomoxetine as the initial drug were less expensive than those utilizing dexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
This drug is linked to serious side effects like suicidal feelings. If your child experiences these symptoms, speak to your doctor immediately. Additionally, atomoxetine may interact with certain medications like monoamine oxidase inhibiters (MAOIs) like phenelzine. If your child is taking MAOIs stop the medication and consult your doctor to recommend a suitable alternative.
There are people who feel fatigued, stomach pain or a loss of appetite. These side effects can be either severe or mild dependent on the person. Atomoxetine is linked to a rare and serious condition called liver impairment, which could result in liver failure. This can be fatal in a few cases. Therefore, it is essential to check with your doctor prior to taking this medicine if have an history of liver problems or any other health issues.
Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking including complementary and herbal treatments. This includes prescription as well as over-the-counter medications including vitamins and minerals. It is crucial to let your doctor know whether you are taking other medicines for ADHD, such as lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate. It is also important to inform your doctor whether you or your child is nursing, pregnant, or planning to become pregnant.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine is a stimulant which is used to treat ADHD in adults. It is able to improve concentration and focus, decrease the risk of impulsive behavior and boost mood. It is a drink or as a capsule or solution. It is essential to adhere to the dosage prescribed by your physician. Taken too much or stopped abruptly can cause problems. Don't operate or drive machinery if you are taking this medication. It is also a crime to carry around the medicine without a prescription. You must always carry proof that you've been given it, like a repeat prescription form or a patient information leaflet. It is also recommended to carry your medication to school or work with you in the event that it's needed during the day.
Dexamfetamine should be taken with caution in patients with a history of epilepsy as it may lower the threshold for convulsive seizures. It is not recommended for patients who have an history of cardiac or blood vessel disorders, such as coronary heart disease or high blood pressure. It is not recommended to be used during pregnancy or nursing. It is excreted from breast milk, so it could pose a threat to the baby.
If symptoms of ADHD worsen, a review with the prescriber is advised. This will help determine whether the condition is being managed with medication and if the dosages are appropriate. This will enable the physician to alter dosages or switch to other treatments, if required.
A doctor will start the patient with a lower dosage and increase it gradually to ensure that they receive the right dosage. It is a good idea to take your tablets at the same time each day, and ideally with food. This will help you remember when to take them, and will decrease the chances of missing doses.
In addition to taking medication, individuals who suffer from ADHD can benefit from psychoeducation and therapy. This can help children, teenagers and adults to understand their condition and learn how to cope with it. Therapy can also assist them in managing additional issues, such as depression or anxiety. Psychoeducation is a mix of educational materials and professional assistance Therapy can be behavioural or cognitive.
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 approved for this purpose and should only be taken under the supervision of a doctor. It is only available with a prescription and should be stored in a safe location away from children. It is important to adhere to the instructions on your prescription label and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any aspect of the medicine that you don't understand.
The NHS website describes modafinil as being a central nervous system stimulant that helps prevent excessive sleepiness throughout the day. Modafinil is prescribed for the treatment of the condition of narcolepsy. It is widely used for people with Parkinson's Disease, Multiple Sclerosis and fatigue triggered 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 had taken an "smart drug" to boost their concentration during exams. Jack Rivlin (24), editor of The Tab, a student newspaper in Farringdon, London told BBC Newsbeat that he purchased modafinil at PS130 on an offshore website last year to help with his revision.
Although he claims to not believe modafinil actually makes him smarter, he does admit that it has helped him keep up with his course notes and pass his exam. These aren't miracle cures and can have serious 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. It can also interact with certain medications, including antidepressants and sedatives. It is also possible to become dependent on the medication and experience withdrawal symptoms if it is suddenly stopped.
Like methylphenidate and atomoxetine, modafinil is classified as a class B drug, which means it is illegal to possess or supply. If you are found guilty, you could be facing up to five-years in prison.