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ADHD Medication in the UK Medications for ADHD aid in reducing symptoms by boosting activity in specific areas of the brain. They also boost the production of neurotransmitters which are deficient in people with ADHD. In the UK stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed treatment for adults with ADHD. They work by increasing activity in the parts of the brain involved in concentration and impulse control. Stimulants There are two kinds of medication licensed for use in the UK to treat adult ADHD stimulants and non-stimulant medicines. The stimulants are typically used as the first choice because they increase activity in areas of the brain that to regulate attention and behaviour. They include methylphenidate, known as Ritalin, and lisdexamfetamine. These tablets can be taken several times throughout the day as a short-acting pill or every week in the form of a long-acting pill that releases into the bloodstream throughout the day. The dosage of the medication could need to be adjusted regularly in the beginning, as it is monitored and adjusted (titrated) to determine the dosage that is effective for you. Stimulants have a long-standing history of use both medically and as recreational drugs. In the 1930s truck drivers, students, and athletes took amphetamines to increase their energy levels. Amphetamines can be very hazardous and have a great potential for abuse. They are abused as they make people feel fantastic and can stimulate the mind in ways that lead them to addiction. Loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and problems with digestion or stomach are among the most common negative effects of stimulants. These issues can be cured by altering the dosage or timing. They are generally well-tolerated by the majority of adults. However, children can experience more significant side-effects, like the loss of weight, tics and irritability. Non-stimulant ADHD medication works in a different way than stimulants and may take some time to begin working. Clonidine and Guanfacine, commonly called Catapres and Intuniv are alpha agonists. They stimulate receptors in the brain to improve concentration and reduce the impulsivity, hyperactivity and behavioral issues such as aggression and tics. They can be used as a complement to ADHD stimulant medications or taken alone by children aged between 6 and 17. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera, is a non-stimulant medication that improves concentration and impulse control by increasing levels of noradrenaline in the brain. It can be prescribed on by itself, but it is most often combined with guanfacine when children are. These medications do not cause the same side effects as stimulants but can cause headaches and sleep problems. Atomoxetine Some children do not respond to stimulant medications such as Adderall and Ritalin. There are alternatives to stimulants for children who aren't. They improve the signaling between nerves and the regions of the brain, assisting children to concentrate better and manage impulsivity. Non-stimulant ADHD medications use different active ingredients than stimulants. They also do not have the potential for abuse and are not controlled substances. Atomoxetine (Strattera) is one of the newer non-stimulant medicines that treat ADHD in adults, children and teens. It is an antidepressant which has been proven to reduce ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount a chemical called noradrenaline within the brain. Noradrenaline transmits messages between brain cells and is involved in impulsivity, attention, and motivation. Atomoxetine due to its unique mechanism of action, does not have the same side-effects that other antidepressants do, such as Wellbutrin or Effexor. It can be prescribed to children as young 5 years old. It is taken either once or twice a day in tablet form. Atomoxetine gives a steady, continuous control of ADHD symptoms, and can help in reducing problems at night, when the effects of certain stimulants diminish. The FDA has also approved guanfacine XR as well as Clonidine XR, both which are available as non-stimulant ADHD medications. They are prescribed to children who have not had a positive response to stimulant medication or who have difficulty with its side effects. They can be used in conjunction with stimulants like Adderall XR, (amphetamines salts), to treat ADHD more effectively. If you or your child is being treated with a non-stimulant ADHD medication, ensure that you follow your GP's instructions carefully. They may suggest starting off with low doses, and then gradually increasing the dosage. They will also want to be aware of any other medications you or your child are taking to make sure for interactions. You will need to make regular appointments with your GP and inform them if you experience any side effects or concerns. They can change your dosage or advise alternative treatments, such as talking therapy. Unlicensed Medication The treatment for ADHD in adults is a range of stimulant and non-stimulant drugs. Psychiatrists may also prescribe medicines which are 'off-label' for the condition (these are substances that are approved for other conditions, but are showing evidence of effectiveness in adults with ADHD). These are usually antidepressants, such as bupropion and Venflaxine. They have demonstrated some benefits in the condition, and are well tolerated in smaller doses. Unlicensed medications can be prescribed to a patient when there is a genuine medical need that is not satisfied by a licensed medicine. Patients whose regular medication was temporarily cut off due to a disruption of supply, or who require liquid versions of a licensed capsule or tablet due to allergies or intolerances can be affected. Unlicensed medications are often described as “specials”. This term can also be used to refer to medicines that are “off-label” or are prepared or supplied in a manner that is not covered by the licence. These might include crushing tablets to make them easier to swallow or adding liquid to the capsule or tablet that is licensed to form a mixture for administration by injection, or using a syringe pump to administer the medication subcutaneously (under the skin). Healthcare professionals generally utilize unlicensed medicines as a last option and when they feel there is no licensed alternative. They will carefully evaluate a variety of options to meet the unique requirements of each patient. adult add medication will also periodically review treatments and outcomes taking into consideration the clinical experience as well as new approved treatments. It is essential that any unlicensed medication used to treat a patient is safe and efficient. The reason for prescribing a medicine must be documented in the patient's record. If a person has any adverse reactions due to an off-label medication, they must be reported to the MHRA's Yellow Card scheme. This information will be used by the MHRA to revise the marketing authorisation for the medication and ensure that future prescriptions are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A therapist who works with you will work with you to understand your symptoms and help you find ways to manage them. They'll also be able to offer guidance and advice on ways to change your way of thinking and behave to feel more confident about your life. It is crucial to finish the number of sessions that your therapist suggests as this will make you feeling better. Medications help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD by increasing the number of neurotransmitters in your brain. These chemicals allow your neurons transmit messages, allowing you focus your mind and avoid distractions. There are two major kinds of drugs used to treat ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulants. All of them improve the availability neurotransmitters within your brain. There are a number of medicines licensed in the UK to treat ADHD. The most common medication is methylphenidate. It is available in immediate-release tablets, which are taken in small doses of 2 to 3 times a day. Or as modified-release tablets, which are taken once a week but released throughout the course of the day. These medicines are not an effective cure, but they can help you manage impulsive behavior and concentrate. They are generally tolerated well, however your doctor will monitor you closely to ensure you receive the correct dose and do not suffer from any adverse consequences. It may take several weeks to get the medication to its maximum level. You may also have to adjust your dosage (change your dosage on a regular basis) to determine what works best. Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine (available only with a prescription) are more effective and have less potential for addiction than stimulants. They are more effective but not as well-liked. Some people may experience problems with appetite, memory or sleep. Your specialist will monitor you progress and determine whether to continue with atomoxetine, or switch to a different treatment. People with ADHD are unable to discover permanent solutions using medication or therapy. They can help you cope with your symptoms and live a fulfilling lifestyle. You will get the most out of your treatment by combining treatment with regular visits to your therapist, as this will give you the chance to discover ways to cope and identify problematic patterns in your behavior and thinking. Some people's improved moods and self-confidence can persist after treatment.