ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist when they are able to make a diagnosis. However, the NHS is experiencing shortages of many 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 solved between December 2023 and Oct 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is the brand name of amphétamine salts. It's a powerful stimulant which when taken in the right way, helps people with ADHD concentrate and stay focused. It also helps them control their impulses. It's used to treat ADHD, also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and also narcolepsy.
It was the first drug to be approved by the FDA to treat both of these conditions. It is a central nerve stimulant that increases norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters in the brain. The increased levels of these chemicals assist with concentration, and also improve alertness in those suffering from Narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to those suffering from ADHD in tablets or liquid. It can be taken as required, or multiple times throughout the day to reduce symptoms of the condition. medication for adhd and anxiety who are taking Adderall may experience adverse effects, such as stomach upset, headaches and dry mouth. Some people might develop a tolerance to the medication and will need to take more than their doctor recommends to achieve the same effects.
Adderall is not recommended for people with certain heart issues. They can cause anxiety and increase the heart rate, which is dangerous for those with heart disease or heart issues. Before taking Adderall, those with glaucoma, liver or kidney problems should consult their doctor. Adderall can cause birth defects for babies born to mothers who took it during pregnancy. There's not enough information on how the drug can affect a fetus, but animal studies have shown negative effects.
The effects of stimulants can slow growth in children, but the effects are minimal and the majority of kids catch up when they reach adulthood. They can also cause psychosis which is a combination between hallucinations, delusions and other symptoms.
Adderall is an Schedule II drug, meaning it is a drug with a high risk for abuse. It can be abused by people who don't suffer from ADHD who are using it to boost their energy levels or lose weight. Illegal users often mix it with cocaine to increase the effects. It can also show up in drug screening tests for sports or work.
3. Concerto
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 can help improve concentration and other symptoms of ADHD. It is important to take this medication as prescribed by a physician. Do not increase the dosage without consulting your physician. This can result in negative side effects. It is also recommended that you store Concerta in a safe place out of the reach of children, and at the temperature of room.
Insomnia is another common side effect that can make it hard to fall asleep. It is suggested that you try to take it at the same time every day. You can track your medication by using an alarm clock or pill reminder. This drug is a pregnancy category C, meaning that it should only be utilized when the benefits are greater than the risks to a growing baby. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate for prolonged periods of time as it can lead to dependence.
This medication can also trigger tics. These are unintentional, repetitive movements or sounds. This can be characterized by eye blinking, head bobbing and humming. Most people don't experience this however should you experience it, talk to your doctor.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a medication that is used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults and children. It contains dexmethylphenidate, which stimulates the central nervous system and reduces impulsivity in ADHD patients.
As with other stimulant medications, Focalin can help increase levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters boost attention, vigilance, and control of impulses. They are responsible for the communication between nerve cells. They are therefore effective ADHD medications. Focalin dosages vary based on the age of the patient, and may be long-acting or short-acting. The immediate-release tablets are short-acting while the extended-release tablets are longer-acting.
The long-term use of focalin can result in serious adverse reactions. The drug has been linked with depression, especially for those who aren't predisposed. The reason for this is that the medication causes the levels of neurotransmitters to be elevated for a long period of time. Joanna Moncrieff is a professor of psychiatry and a psychiatrist at University College London. She has spent countless hours fighting what she believes to be an overprescription of stimulant medications for mental disorders.
Some people can also experience psychomotor retardation and agitation due to Focalin. They may also feel a temporary feeling of being slightly euphoric and energised. Focalin can also cause sleeplessness and drowsiness. Additionally, patients may occasionally develop tolerance to the drug and they require greater and higher doses to achieve the same effect. This can result in dependence and addiction.
To reduce the chance of Focalin addiction, doctors should regularly reassess their patients' risks and be aware of signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse or addiction. They must advise patients to store the drug in a secure place and not give it to anyone else. They should also educate patients about the dangers of accidental overdoses, and provide them with instructions on how to dispose of unused medicine.
Unlike other ADHD drugs, Focalin does not take effect right away. The effects of Focalin appear in the first three hours following the dose, and can last for as long as four hours. This is the reason it is usually prescribed with other non-medication therapy, such as cognitive behavior therapy.