ADHD Medication in the UK
A psychiatrist will prescribe ADHD medication to adults who have been diagnosed with. The NHS is currently facing an insufficient supply of central nervous system stimulants, such as ADHD medications.
The shortage is due to manufacturing issues and a rise in global demand. The shortage is expected to be resolved between December 2023 and October 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name used to describe a mixture of amphetamine salts. It's a powerful stimulant which, when taken correctly, helps people with ADHD focus and stay on track, as well as control their impulses. It's used to treat ADHD, also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and also narcolepsy.
The FDA approved the first drug that treated both conditions. It's a central nervous system stimulant, which increases the amount of norepinephrine as well as other neurotransmitters that are found in the brain. The increased levels of these chemicals aid in focusing, and increase alertness in people suffering from the disorder narcolepsy.
Adderall is prescribed by doctors to ADHD patients in tablet or liquid forms. Adderall can be taken on a daily basis or as required to treat symptoms. Adderall users can suffer from side effects like dry mouth, headaches and stomach upset. Some people may develop tolerance to the medication and may have to take more than what their doctor recommends to achieve the same effect.
Adderall is not recommended for those suffering from certain heart conditions. They can increase heart rate and trigger anxiety, which is dangerous for people who have heart problems or a history of heart disease. Before taking Adderall, people suffering from liver, glaucoma or kidney problems should consult with their physician. Adderall could cause birth defects for babies born to mothers who used it during pregnancy. There's not enough information available on how the drug might affect a fetus, but animal studies have shown negative effects.
Stimulants can slow growth in children, but the change isn't significant and children usually catch up when they reach the age of adulthood. They can also trigger psychosis, which is a combination of hallucinations and delusions.
Adderall is an Schedule II drug, meaning it has a high potential for abuse. It can be misused by those who don't have ADHD who are using it to feel more energetic or lose weight. People who abuse it will often mix it with other substances, such as cocaine, to enhance the effects. It may also show up in drug tests to determine if you are fit for athletics or work.
3. adhd uk medication to Adderall and Vyvanse Concerta is an extended-release drug that is taken once per day in the morning. It is believed to work by increasing levels of two neurotransmitters in the brain, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. This improves concentration as well as other ADHD symptoms. It is essential to take this medication according to the dosage prescribed by a physician. Do not increase the dosage without consulting your doctor. This could cause adverse consequences. Store Concerta at room temperature and in a location that is safe of children.
Another frequent side effect of this medication is insomnia which can make it difficult to fall asleep. It is recommended that you try to take it at the same time each day. A pill reminder or a medication timer may help to keep you on the right track. This drug is a pregnancy category C, meaning that it should only be used when the benefits outweigh the risks for a developing baby. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate over prolonged periods of time as it can lead to dependence.
This medication can also cause tics. These are unintentional, repeated actions or sounds. This could include eye blinks, head bobbing and humming. This is something that most people do not notice however if it does happen to you, consult your doctor about it.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a drug that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in both adults and children. It contains the active ingredient, dexmethylphenidate. It is a stimulant for the central nervous system to reduce the impulsivity of people with ADHD.
As with other stimulant medications, Focalin can help increase levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and neopinephrine within the brain. These neurotransmitters increase concentration, vigilance and control of impulses. They are responsible for the communication between nerve cells. This makes them effective ADHD treatment medications. Focalin dosage varies according to the age of the patient and is either long-acting or short-acting. The tablets that are short-acting are known as immediate-release, while the more powerful tablets are referred to as extended-release.
Long-term use of Focalin can trigger serious adverse effects. The drug has been linked to depression particularly in those who aren't predisposed to it. This is because the medication causes the levels of neurotransmitters to be elevated for a long period of time. This is why Joanna Moncrieff, professor of psychiatry at University College London has spent much of her career fighting what she believes is over prescribing stimulant medication to treat mental disorders.
Some individuals may also experience psychomotor retardation and agitation due to Focalin. Some individuals may feel temporarily energized and mildly happy. Other typical Focalin side effects include insomnia and sleepiness. Patients may also develop tolerance to the drug, requiring more and more dosages to achieve the same effects. This could cause dependence and addiction.
In order to minimize the risk of Focalin addiction, doctors should regularly reassess their patients' risk and be aware of signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse or addiction. They should advise patients to keep the drug in a secure location and not give it to anyone else. They should also inform patients about the dangers of accidental overdoses as well as how to dispose of any medication that is not used.
Focalin unlike other ADHD medication, doesn't immediately start to work. The effects of the drug start in the first two to three hours after taking it, and last for up to four hours. This is the reason it is often prescribed along with other non-medication therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy.