ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist after a diagnosis is made. The NHS is currently experiencing an insufficient supply of central nervous system stimulants, including ADHD medications.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing problems and increased global demand. The shortage is expected to be solved between December 2023 and Oct 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name of a mixture of amphétamine salts. It is a potent stimulant, which, when used correctly, helps people who suffer from ADHD remain focused, manage their impulses, and stay focused. It is prescribed to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
The FDA approved the first drug that could treat both conditions. It is a central nervous stimulant that boosts norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters within the brain. Increased levels of these chemicals aid in concentration and increase alertness in people suffering from Narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to those suffering from ADHD in tablet form or liquid. Adderall is a medication that can be taken on a daily basis or when needed to treat symptoms. People who take Adderall may experience adverse effects, like stomach upset, headaches and dry mouth. Certain people may develop tolerance to the drug, and may need to take more than what their doctor recommends to achieve the same results.
Adderall is not recommended for people with certain heart problems. They can increase anxiety and increase heart rate, which is dangerous to people with heart disease or heart issues. Before taking Adderall who suffer from glaucoma, liver or kidney issues should also consult with their physician. Adderall can cause birth defects for babies born to mothers who used it during pregnancy. There's not enough information on how the drug can affect a fetus. However, animal studies have shown negative effects.
The effects of stimulants can slow growth in children but the effect is minimal and the majority of children are able to catch up once they reach adulthood. They can also trigger psychosis which is a combination of hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it has a high abuse potential. People who do not suffer from ADHD are able to use Adderall in order to feel more energetic and shed weight. Illegal users frequently mix it with cocaine to enhance its effects. It can also be detected in tests for drugs used for sports or work.
3. Concerta
Similar to Adderall and Vyvanse, Concerta is an extended release medication that is taken every day in the morning. It is believed that it works by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. This can improve concentration as well as other ADHD symptoms. It is important that you use this medication as prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase the dosage without consulting with your doctor. This could cause adverse consequences. It is also recommended that you store Concerta in a secure place out of the reach of children and at room temperature.
Insomnia is another common side effect that can make it hard to fall asleep. It is best to take the medication at the same time every day. You can track your medication using a pill reminder or timer. This drug is a pregnancy category C, which means that it is only employed when the benefits outweigh the risks to a growing baby. The long-term use of methylphenidate is not recommended as it could lead to dependence.
This medication can also cause tics. These are unintentional, repeated movements or sounds. This could include eye blinks and head bobbing as well as humming. This is something that the majority of people do not experience however should it happen to you, speak to your doctor about it.
4. Focalin
Focalin can be utilized by adults and children to treat attention deficit disorder. It is a dexmethylphenidate-based medication that stimulates the central nervous system and decreases the impulsivity of ADHD patients.
Focalin as well as other stimulant drugs, can increase the levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters aid in the communication between nerve cells, and increase attention, vigilance and impulse control. natural adhd medication are therefore effective ADHD drugs. Focalin dosages vary based on the age of the patient and may be short-acting or long-acting. The immediate-release tablets have a short-acting effect while the extended-release tablets have a longer-acting.
The long-term use of focalin can result in serious side effects. The drug has been linked with depression, especially in those that aren't prone to it. This is because the medication causes neurotransmitters levels to stay elevated for a long period of time. Joanna Moncrieff is a professor of psychiatry and psychiatrist at University College London. She has spent countless hours fighting what she believes is an overprescription of stimulant medications to treat mental disorders.
Focalin can also cause psychomotor agitation or retardation in certain people. It is possible that they will experience the sensation of being energised and mildly euphoric. Other typical Focalin side effects include sleeplessness and drowsiness. Patients can also develop tolerance to the drug, requiring greater and higher doses to get the same effect. This can lead to addiction and dependence.
To minimize the risk of Focalin abuse, doctors should regularly reassess the risks for their patients and look for signs of abuse, misuse, or addiction. They must advise patients to store the medication in a secure location and not give it to anyone else. They should also inform patients about the dangers of accidental overdoses, and provide them with instructions on how to dispose of unused medication.
Unlike other ADHD medication, Focalin does not take effect immediately. The effects of the drug begin within two to three hours after taking it, and last for up to four hours. This is why it's commonly prescribed with other non-medication therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy.