ADHD Medication For Adults in the UK
In the UK there is a variety of medications that are approved for treating ADHD. The stimulant methylphenidate, and the amphetamine-based drug lisdexamfetamine, are two of the most frequently prescribed drugs. The dosage will be closely monitored in the beginning stages of treatment.
What is what is Licensed Medication (L.M.)?
A licensed medicine has undergone all the necessary tests and clinical trials, and the MHRA Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHRA) has given the green light for its use in Great Britain. The medicine will also be clearly listed as suitable for a particular condition on its packaging or in the leaflet that comes with it. All licensed medicines go through strict regulation even after they have been placed on the market. This allows problems to be identified quickly and reduces the risk.
Some people suffering from ADHD might be prescribed unlicensed medications however they aren't often used for teenagers and children. Unlicensed medications can be prescribed for other conditions that have been proved to work well (known as "off-label prescribing") or they could be a formulation that is not yet available in the market like an oral liquid instead of tablets. It could also be an experimental medicine being trialled in the UK.
The term "experimental drugs" is used to refer to medicines with an IMP or Marketing Authorisation(MIA) (IMP) or Investigational Medicinal Products. These drugs aren't yet licensed and can only be purchased through an order from a doctor. They'll have been through an official assessment by the MHRA as part of the Early Access to Medicines Scheme (EAMS) and so the quality of the pharmaceutical is guaranteed.
There is one non stimulant medication that is often prescribed for ADHD in the UK and Europe and that is atomoxetine. It is a selective blocker of noradrenaline's absorption which means it performs differently than other ADHD medications. It increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain which is a type of chemical that passes messages between nerve cells, which improves concentration and aids in controlling impulses. It is taken in capsules once or twice daily.
Only psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication for adults. It's important to note that ADHD isn't just a condition which can be treated with medications alone. Therapy is frequently included in treatment plans for people with the disorder. Psychoeducation can help children, teens and adults comprehend their diagnosis and behavioural therapy which teaches techniques to manage symptoms.
What is an unlicensed medicine?
The term "unlicensed medicine" refers to drugs that are not licensed by the MHRA. It could be that the medicine was not developed by a UK-based company or was prescribed outside of the terms of licence (off-label). The GMC's guidelines state that 'unlicensed medications are typically used when a suitable licensed product is not available or when a clinically effective treatment cannot be found using the drug that makes the prescriber feel at ease'.
The license of a medicine will list the conditions it treats, and the ages it is able to treat. The licence will also specify how and by whom the medicine should be taken. The MHRA only issues a licence only if it is safe and effective for that particular use, based on clinical trials and medical research. The manufacturers of the drugs are not allowed to promote or advertise any use that is not covered by the licence.
It is not illegal in the UK for medical professionals to prescribe an unlicensed medication provided they can explain the risks and benefits of this to the patient. They must also keep records of the use of non-licensed medications and provide the patient with sufficient information to make an informed decision about whether they want to accept it.
Unlicensed medications are often given in hospitals, as there is more experience of using them than in GP practices. The hospital will have procedures to ensure the safety and efficacy of the medication. This includes keeping detailed patient records, and also recording any adverse reactions. They will be required to follow MHRA guidelines for the safe supply of unlicensed medicines.
Specials are prescribed by doctors who must communicate with their patients, parents or caregivers about the medication it is prescribed for, its purpose, and any possible adverse consequences. They must be able to answer any questions they receive and always provide written details of any medication they prescribe, as well as the reasons for it.
What is a Shared Care Agreement?
In recent years, as the number of adults suspected of having ADHD increased as did the demand for a referral to the NHS for an assessment and medication to treat the condition. Unfortunately, the waiting lists for NHS assessments are long and this means that a large number of patients are reverting to self-funding private ADHD assessments at specialist private clinics. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, the GP could sign an agreement of shared-care (SCA) with the patient.
A SCA is a contract between your psychiatrist and GP which means that the responsibility for prescribing medications monitoring, as well as basic health checks is transferred to your GP. It is a well-known accepted method of transferring the responsibility of managing ADHD patients from a specialist service or hospital to a general practice.
These SCA guidelines should be agreed between the specialist and the GP before responsibility is passed over, and this should be clearly stated on any referral form. It should be made clear to the GP that he or she is responsible for the continual titration of the medication as well as the monitoring requirements.
Unfortunately, a lot of GPs are not able to accept SCAs. This isn't because of an inability to accept, but because the work involved with SCAs could be outside of their primary funding, and usually an additional project on top of a busy schedule.
The doctor must be informed about the reasoning behind SCA and the expectations of all parties involved, and the role of patients and their carers. It should also be made clear that a decision regarding SCA must be made by the prescriber who initiated treatment. The GP should be told that they do not want to take part in the SCA.
If a doctor does not wish to take on the responsibility of SCA they can choose not to do so, but this could result in patients being sent back to the private ADHD assessment clinic and psychiatrist who carried out their initial diagnosis. This could result in medication prescriptions being issued privately, instead of through the NHS. This could be more expensive.
What is a Titration Period?
The tration stage is a crucial stage to find the appropriate medication for ADHD. It is the process of gradually increasing your dose until you reach a dosage that maximises the benefits while minimizing adverse effects. It is an ongoing process that can take time. adhd medication online should collaborate closely with you to ensure the titration procedure is as effortless as it can be.
Certain patients may experience worsening of their symptoms during the titration phase. Hyperactive people, for example might become restless and irritable. This is why it is vital that loved ones are aware of any changes and offer assistance. To minimize the adverse effects from ADHD medications, it is important to live a healthy life and a consistent sleep schedule.
The use of medication isn't the only treatment for ADHD however it is generally recommended as the first option for treatment for adults. Talk therapy is an effective tool to deal with depression and anxiety that can be the cause of some symptoms of ADHD. It is important to keep in mind that medication can only treat the symptoms, not change long-standing negative coping mechanisms. Some patients decide not to take any medication, instead focusing on self-help strategies such as fitness, nutrition and stress reduction.
It is essential to be aware of the side effects and how they will affect your body. Certain medications can cause headaches or drowsiness as well as decrease appetite. Be sure to use your medications as directed and consult your doctor if you experience any adverse reactions.
A lot of the drugs used to treat adult ADHD are currently in short supply because of shortages. This has resulted in delays in the diagnosis process and a backlog in appointments with psychiatrists. NHS England has set up an taskforce to study the issue and suggest methods to speed up the process of waiting for medication.
Ask your local GP what alternatives are available to you. You may be able take the same medications privately, or they could recommend alternatives that will have similar results to the ones you're used to.