ADHD UK Medication
ADHD medication are controlled and are prescribed by a specialist physician. These stimulants include the methylphenidate (Ritalin and Concerta) and amphetamines salts and Atomoxetine.
Other non-medical treatments, such as talking therapy is also recommended. While medications can help manage symptoms, they don't change the negative strategies for coping.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most well-known ADHD medication prescribed in the UK, is also used to treat narcolepsy and other psychiatric issues. It is also prescribed for Narcolepsy, as well as other mental disorders. It is available in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. Extended-release tablets take longer to dissolve and has long-lasting effects. It is prescribed for a short duration and the dosage is determined by the patient's symptoms.
In general, stimulant medicines stimulate brain areas that regulate attention and behavior. They are often referred to as "cognitive enhancements" and assist people to pay attention, concentrate and remain focused. Methylphenidate stimulates the activity of areas of the brain that are inactive in ADHD patients. It also increases the body's ability to use energy. It is sold as Ritalin.
A recent study revealed that the UK has seen an eight-fold rise in prescriptions for methylphenidate over the past two decades. This is a major public health issue and may indicate that ADHD is being misdiagnosed in the UK. Researchers looked at data from the Clinical Practice Research Database (CPRD) which provides information on all NHS patients who were registered with a GP in England from 1992 until 2013. The study focuses on drugs that have been approved by the British National Formulary for ADHD and classified as CNS stimulants. This includes methylphenidate (methylphenidate immediate-release and methylphenidate extended release), atomoxetine, dexamphetamine (and its derivative lisdexamfetamine) and modafinil. Pemoline, which is no longer available in the UK due to liver toxicities was excluded from the study.
The study found that methylphenidate was by far the most popular medication prescribed to children 5 and under, with almost a quarter of children receiving 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, this is what occurred. They recommend that parents instead look into psychological interventions.
The findings suggest that the increase in prescriptions for methylphenidate could be partly due to the availability of mental health services but it could also be due to the increasing recognition of ADHD among young people and the increasing desire to seek diagnosis and treatment. In addition there could be some cases of inappropriate prescribing methylphenidate to adolescents and young adults.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline receptor inhibit (SNRI), is used to treat ADHD among children and adolescents. It also serves as an option for treating comorbid anxiety symptoms. It is not a stimulant and has a low abuse potential. It has been proven to be effective in clinical studies and is a great alternative for children who do not respond well to stimulants. However, the long-term safety of atomoxetine is not known.
Atomoxetine acts differently from other ADHD medication. It increases the level of a chemical within the brain known as noradrenaline. This chemical is responsible for transmitting messages between nerve cells and increasing its levels can improve concentration and control impulses. It is available in capsules and is taken every daily. This medication is often used in conjunction with other treatments, such as psychotherapy, cognitive therapy and educational assistance.
In one study, atomoxetine was found to be more effective than placebo when it comes to improving ADHD symptoms. This drug is well tolerated and has a lower side effect risk than stimulants, particularly for children. A recent study on cost-effectiveness showed that treatment algorithms that used atomoxetine as the initial drug were less expensive than those using dexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
This drug has been linked to some serious side effects, such as suicidal thoughts. Talk to your doctor immediately if your child is showing these signs. In addition, atomoxetine can interact with certain medications such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like phenelzine. If your child is taking MAOIs, stop the medication and ask your physician to suggest a different option.
Some people may feel fatigued, stomach pain or a decrease in appetite. These side effects may be either severe or mild depending on the individual. Atomoxetine can be linked to a serious but rare condition known as hepatic dysfunction which can lead to liver failure. In some cases it could be fatal. It is therefore important to consult your physician prior to taking this medicine if have any liver issues or other health issues.
Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking including herbal and complementary treatments. This includes prescription and over-the counter medications, vitamins and minerals. It is crucial to inform your doctor if taking any other ADHD medication, like methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. It is also important to inform your doctor that you or your child are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine is a stimulant that is used to treat ADHD in adults. It improves concentration and attention, as well as reduce impulsive behavior and improve mood. It is available as a capsule, solution or by mouth. It is crucial to take it as prescribed by your physician. Taken too much or stopped abruptly can cause problems. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you're taking this medication. It is also an offence to carry around the medicine without a prescription. You must always have proof that you've been prescribed it, like a repeat prescription form or a patient information leaflet. You should also carry your medication to school or work with you, in case it's needed during the day.
Dexamfetamine should be used with caution in epilepsy patients since it can decrease the threshold for convulsions. It is not recommended for patients with an history of heart or blood vessel disorders, such a coronary heart condition or high blood pressure. It is not recommended to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. adhd medications is excreted into breast milk, and thus poses a risk to the infant.
If symptoms of ADHD get worse, a review by the doctor is suggested. This will help determine if the problem is controlled through medication and if the medications are appropriate. This will allow the prescriber to adjust dosages or switch to other treatments if needed.
A doctor will begin the patient with a low dosage and increase it gradually to ensure they get the right dosage. It is also a good idea to take the tablets at the same time every day, ideally with food. This will help you remember when to take them and reduce the chances of missing doses.
In addition to taking medication, people who suffer from ADHD may benefit from psychoeducation and therapy. This can help children, teenagers and adults to understand their condition and learn to deal with it. Therapy can also assist them in managing additional issues, such as depression or anxiety. Psychoeducation is a mix of education materials and support from a trained professional, while 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. Modafinil is available off-label for adults over 18 years old to treat the symptoms of ADHD. It is not approved for this use and should be taken only under the supervision of a doctor. It is only available with a prescription, and should be stored in a safe area away from children. It is essential to adhere to the instructions on the prescription label. Also, ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part of the medicine that you do not understand.
The NHS website describes Modafinil as a sleep-inducing central nervous system stimulant. Modafinil is prescribed for the treatment of narcolepsy but it has been extensively used to treat people suffering from 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.
In a recent study, one in five UK students admitted to taking the "smart-drug" to boost their ability to concentrate in exams. Jack Rivlin (24), editor of The Tab, a student newspaper based in Farringdon, London told BBC Newsbeat that he purchased modafinil at PS130 on an offshore website last year to help in his study.
Although he claims to not believe that modafinil can make him smarter, he admits it has helped him to keep up with his class notes and pass the exam. It is important to remember that these drugs are not magical bullets, and they could 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. Modafinil could also interfere negatively with certain medications like antidepressants or sedatives. It is possible that you will suffer withdrawal symptoms and become dependent on the drug if you suddenly stop taking it.
Like methylphenidate and atomoxetine, modafinil is classified as a Class B drug, meaning it is illegal to possess or supply. If you're caught, you'll be facing up to five years in prison.