ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist after a diagnosis is made. However the NHS is currently experiencing shortages of several central nervous system stimulants as well as ADHD medicines.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing issues and a rise in global demand. The shortage is expected to be resolved between the months of December 2023 and October 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name of a mixture of amphetamine salts. It's a potent stimulant that when taken in the right way, helps people with ADHD focus and stay focused. It also helps them control their impulses. It's used to treat ADHD, and also narcolepsy.
It was the first medicine to be approved by the FDA to treat both of these conditions. It is a central nerve stimulant that boosts norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters in the brain. The increased levels of these chemicals aid in concentration and boost alertness in people with the disorder narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to patients suffering from ADHD in tablets or liquid. It can be taken as needed, or multiple times throughout the day to reduce symptoms of the condition. Adderall users may be afflicted with side effects, such as dry mouth, headaches and stomach upset. Certain people may develop tolerance to the medication, and may need to take more than what their doctor prescribes to get the same result.
People who suffer from certain heart diseases should not use stimulants, including Adderall. They can cause anxiety and elevate heart rate, which can be dangerous to people suffering from heart disease or problems. People suffering from glaucoma, kidney or liver problems should consult their doctor before taking Adderall. adhd no medication can cause birth defects in babies born to women who have taken it during pregnancy. There's not enough information available on how the drug could affect a fetus, however animal studies have shown negative effects.
Stimulants can slow the growth rate of children, but the difference is small and kids usually catch up by the time they are adults. They can also cause psychosis, which is a mix of hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it has an extremely high possibility of abuse. It can be misused by those who don't have ADHD, who use it to feel more energetic or lose weight. Illegal users frequently mix it with cocaine to boost the effects. It is also detected in drug tests for sports or work.
3. Concerta
Concerta, just like Adderall and Vyvanse is an extended-release medication taken in the morning. It is believed to increase levels of two neurotransmitters in the brain: norepinephrine and dopamine. This may help improve concentration as well as other symptoms of ADHD. It is important to take this medication as prescribed by a doctor. Do not increase the dose without a physician's approval, as doing so can cause more side effects. Store Concerta at room temperature and in a place that is safe of children.
Insomnia is another common side effect that can make it hard to sleep. It is recommended to take the medication at the same time every day. You can keep track of your medication with a timer or pill reminder. adhd no medication is a pregnancy category C, which means that it should only be employed when the benefits outweigh the risks to a growing baby. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate over prolonged periods of time as it may lead to dependency.
This medication can also cause tics. These are unintentional, repetitive movements or sounds. This can include eye blinking and head bobbing as well as humming. This is something that most people will not have however if it does happen to you, talk to your doctor about it.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a treatment option for adults and children to treat ADHD. It is made up of dexmethylphenidate, which stimulates the central nervous system and reduces the impulsivity of ADHD patients.
Like other stimulant medications, Focalin can help increase levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters increase attention, vigilance, and control of impulses. They are responsible for the communication between nerve cells. They are therefore effective ADHD medications. Focalin dosage varies based on the age of the patient and can be either short-acting or long-acting. The immediate-release tablets are short-acting while extended-release tablets act longer.
Long-term usage of Focalin could cause serious negative side negative effects. The drug has been associated with depression, specifically in those who aren't predisposed. This is because the drug causes neurotransmitters levels to stay high for a longer period of time. This is why Joanna Moncrieff, professor of psychiatry at University College London has spent most of her time challenging what she believes is over prescribing stimulant medication to treat mental disorders.
Focalin can also cause psychomotor retardation or agitation in certain people. Some individuals may feel temporarily energized and a little euphoric. Focalin can also cause sleeplessness and sleepiness. Patients can also develop tolerance to the drug, requiring greater and higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can cause dependence and addiction.
In order to minimize the chance of Focalin addiction doctors should review their patients' risks and monitor for indicators and signs of misuse, abuse or addiction. They should advise patients to store the drug in a secure place and not give it to anyone else. They must also inform patients of the dangers of accidental overdoses and how to dispose of any medication that is not used.
Focalin, unlike other ADHD medication, doesn't immediately take effect. The effects of Focalin appear within two to three hours after the dose and can last for up to four hours. This is the reason it is frequently prescribed with other non-medication therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy.