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ADHD Medication in the UK The medications for ADHD reduce symptoms by enhancing the activity of the brain in certain areas. They also increase the production of neurotransmitters that are absent in people suffering from ADHD. In the UK the UK, stimulant drugs are the most commonly prescribed treatment for adults with ADHD. They are effective by enhancing activity in the parts of the brain involved in attention and impulse control. Stimulants There are two types of medications that are approved for use in the UK to treat adult ADHD: stimulants and non-stimulant drugs. Stimulants are usually used as the first choice because they boost activity in the regions of the brain that control attention and behavior. These include methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, and lisdexamfetamine. These tablets can be taken a few times a day as a short-acting tablet or once a week as an extended-acting pill that is released into the bloodstream throughout the day. The dose of the medication may need to be changed regularly in the beginning as it is monitored and adjusted (titrated) to find the dosage that is effective for you. Stimulants have a long history of use both medicinally and as recreational drugs. In the 1930s, truck drivers, students, and athletes used amphetamines in order to boost their energy. Amphetamines are extremely hazardous and have a great potential for abuse. They are used to make people feel happy and can stimulate the brain in ways that result in addiction. The most frequent side effects of stimulants include loss of appetite, difficulty sleeping and problems with stomach or digestive system. Adjustments in the dosage or timing of the medication usually alleviate these issues. They are generally well-tolerated by adults in general. However, children can have more severe side-effects like anxiety, weight loss and crankiness. Non-stimulant ADHD medication works differently from stimulants and can take a while before they begin to show results. Clonidine and guanfacine (brand names Catapres and Intuniv) are alpha agonists, both of which work by stimulating specific receptors in the brain to improve concentration, decrease the impulsivity and hyperactivity, and reduce behavioural issues such as aggression and tics. They can be used as a complement to ADHD stimulant medications or used on their own by children between the ages of 6-17. Atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) is a different non-stimulant medication for ADHD that increases levels of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline to improve impulse control and concentration. It is a medication that can be used on its own but is most often used in conjunction with guanfacine to treat children. adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medication don't have the same negative side effects as stimulants, but they can still cause headaches and sleep problems. Atomoxetine Certain children aren't able to respond to stimulant drugs like Adderall and Ritalin. There are alternatives to stimulants for these children. They enhance the communication between nerves and regions of the brain, assisting children to concentrate better and control impulsivity. Nonstimulant ADHD medication uses different active ingredients than stimulants. They also do not have the potential to be abused and aren't controlled substances. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera is a non-stimulant drug that can be used to treat ADHD in children, adults and teenagers. It is an antidepressant, and has been proven to decrease ADHD symptoms by increasing the amount a chemical called noradrenaline within the brain. Noradrenaline transmits messages between brain cells and is involved in attention, impulsivity and motivation. Atomoxetine due to its unique mechanism of effect, does not have the same adverse effects as other antidepressants such as Wellbutrin or Effexor. It is a prescription drug for children as old as 5 and is taken orally every day, either once or twice in tablet form. Atomoxetine produces stable 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms, and can help in reducing problems at night, when the effects of certain stimulants fade. The FDA has also approved guanfacineXR and Clonidine XR, both which are also available as non-stimulant ADHD medications. They are typically prescribed to children who haven't reacted to stimulant medications or have issues with their side effects. They can be used by themselves or in conjunction with stimulants like Adderall XR (amphetamine salts), for an effective treatment for ADHD. If you or your child are being treated with an non-stimulant ADHD medication, ensure that you follow the instructions of your doctor carefully. They may suggest starting with small doses, and then gradually increasing the dosage over time. They will also inquire about any other medications that you or your child is taking to ensure that there aren't any interactions. You'll need to attend regular appointments and let your GP know if you have any concerns or side effects from the medication. They can alter your dosage or give advice alternative treatments, such as talk therapy. Unlicensed Medication Adult ADHD is treated with various stimulant and anti-stimulant drugs. Psychiatrists can also prescribe medicines that are 'off label' (these are drugs which are licensed for a different condition, but are being evaluated for their effectiveness in adults with ADHD). These medications are typically antidepressants such as bupropion or venflaxine, which have been shown to have some positive effects on the condition and are well-tolerated at lower doses than the ones found in licensed treatments. Sometimes, unlicensed medicines are prescribed to patients when there is a medical need that is unique to the patient and the prescription cannot be fulfilled with an alternative licensed medicine. This is for patients whose normal medication is temporarily unavailable because of supply disruptions or other reasons, as well as patients requiring liquid formulations of a licensed tablet or capsule due to reasons like intolerance or allergy. Unlicensed medications are usually described as'specials' however, this can also apply to medicines which are 'off-label', or have been made or distributed in a manner which is not covered by the license of the medicine. They could include crushing tablets to make them easier to swallow or adding liquid to an approved capsule or tablet to create a mix to be administered via injection, or using a syringe pump to administer the medication subcutaneously (under the skin). Healthcare professionals generally employ unlicensed drugs as a last resort when they feel that there is no alternative that is licensed. They will carefully consider a variety of options to meet the specific requirements of each patient. They will also periodically review treatment and results, taking into account both clinical experience and the latest approved treatments. It is essential that any medicine that is not licensed to treat a patient is safe and effective, and the reason for prescribing it should be recorded in the patient's medical record. Note any adverse reactions the patient may experience as a result of an off-label medication by using the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme. The information provided will be used by the MHRA to amend the marketing authorization of the medicine and ensure future prescriptions are safe and effective. Talk Therapy A talk therapist will work with you to understand your symptoms and help you discover ways to manage them. They can also give you advice and support about how to change your ways of thinking and acting to feel more positive. It is vital to complete the recommended number of sessions in order to help you feel better. The quantity of neurotransmitters in your brain can reduce ADHD symptoms. These are substances that allow your neurons to pass on messages, and assist you in focusing your mind and avoid distractions. There are two main types of medication used to treat ADHD that are stimulants and non-stimulants. They function in different ways, but all increase the availability of neurotransmitters within your brain. There are a variety of medications licensed in the UK to treat ADHD. The most popular medication is methylphenidate. It is available in immediate-release tablets that are taken in small doses of 2 to 3 times per day. Or as modified-release tablets, which are taken weekly, but released throughout the time of the day. These medicines are not a cure but can help you control your the impulsive behavior and focus. They are usually well-tolerated however your doctor will monitor you closely to ensure you receive the correct dose and are not experiencing any adverse consequences. It could take a few weeks to get the medication to its optimal level. You may also have to titrate (change your dose regularly) to determine the best dosage. Non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine, that is available by prescription only, are more efficient than stimulants, and are not as prone to the potential for addiction. They are more effective but not as well tolerated. Some patients may have issues with memory, appetite or sleep. Your doctor will track your development and decide if you should continue with atomoxetine, or switch to another treatment. People suffering from ADHD cannot find permanent solutions with treatment or medication. They can help you deal with your symptoms and lead a happy life. Combining medications with regular therapy sessions will allow you to get the most benefit from your treatment. You'll learn coping strategies and identify unhelpful patterns of behaviour and thought. For some, their improved mood and confidence can even last well beyond the duration of their treatment.