ADHD UK Medication
ADHD medications are controlled drugs' and require a specialist physician to prescribe them. These are known as stimulants. They include the methylphenidate family (Ritalin, Concerta etc), the amphetamine salts and the atomoxetine.
Other non-medical treatments, such as talk therapy are also suggested. Medications can help manage symptoms, but they do not alter the long-standing negative coping mechanisms.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed ADHD medication in the UK. It is also used to treat narcolepsy as well as several other psychiatric conditions. It comes in both immediate-release tablets as well as extended-release capsules. The extended-release version takes longer to dissolve and has long-lasting effects. It is prescribed for a brief period of time and the dosage is determined by the individual's symptoms.
In general, stimulant medications boost the activity of areas of the brain which control behaviour and attention. They are often referred to as "cognitive enhancements" and assist people to pay attention, focus and stay on task. Methylphenidate stimulates the activity of brain regions that are inactive in ADHD patients. It also increases your body's energy use. It is sold under the brand name Ritalin.
A recent study found the UK has seen an eight-fold rise in prescriptions for methylphenidate over the past two decades. This is a major health risk for the public and suggests that there could be a misdiagnosis of ADHD in the UK. The researchers looked at data from the Clinical Practice Research Database (CPRD) which provides details of all NHS patients who had a GP in England from 1992 until 2013. The study focuses on drugs that were approved by the British National Formulary for ADHD and classified as CNS stimulants. This includes methylphenidate (methylphenidate immediate-release and methylphenidate extended release) as well as atomoxetine, dexamphetamine (and its derivative lisdexamfetamine) and modafinil. Pemoline, which is no longer available in the UK due to liver toxicities was not included in the study.
Researchers found that methylphenidate was the most frequently prescribed drug for children aged 5 and younger. Nearly a quarter these children are prescribed this drug. This is despite the fact that National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines suggest that medication only be prescribed as a the first-line treatment for children suffering from severe symptoms of ADHD. They suggest that parents instead look into psychological interventions.
The results suggest that the rise in methylphenidate prescriptions is partly due to the availability of mental health services but it could also be due to the increasing recognition of ADHD among young people and a growing desire to seek diagnosis and treatment. There could also instances of improper prescribing methylphenidate to teenagers and young adults.
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline receptor inhibit (SNRI) is used to treat ADHD in adolescents and children. It is also used to treat comorbid symptoms of anxiety. It is not a stimulant and has a low abuse potential. It has been shown to be effective in clinical studies and is a viable option for children who haven't had a positive response to stimulants. The long-term safety of this product is not known.
Atomoxetine acts differently in comparison to other ADHD medications. It increases the level of a chemical that is present in the brain called noradrenaline. This chemical carries messages between nerve cells and increasing its levels can boost concentration and aid in controlling impulses. It is available in capsule form and is taken every day. It is typically taken in conjunction with other treatments, such as psychological therapy and educational assistance.
In one study, atomoxetine was found to be more effective at treating ADHD symptoms than a placebo. It is well-tolerated and has a lower side effect risk than stimulants, particularly in children. Additionally, a recent cost-effectiveness study showed that treatment strategies that included the initial use of atomoxetine were more expensive than those involving dexamfetamine or methylphenidate.
This drug is linked to serious side effects like suicidal feelings. Talk to your doctor immediately if you child exhibits these signs. A lot of medicines like monoamine oxide inhibitors (MAOIs) such as phenelzine can interact with atomoxetine. If add adhd medications is taking MAOIs, you should stop the medication and consult your doctor to recommend an alternative.
Some people may experience a feeling of fatigue, a loss of appetite, or stomach discomfort. These side effects can be severe or mild, dependent on the individual. Atomoxetine is associated with a serious, but rare condition known as hepatic dysfunction which can cause liver failure. This can be fatal in some cases. It is crucial to talk with your physician if you've been diagnosed with liver problems or other health issues in the past.
Inform your doctor about all the medications you take including herbal and complementary treatments. This includes prescription and over-the counter medicines, minerals and vitamins. It is particularly important to inform your doctor that you are taking other medicines for ADHD like methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine. Tell your doctor if either you or your child is nursing, pregnant or considering becoming pregnant.
Dexamfetamine
Dexamfetamine is a stimulant that is used to treat ADHD in adults. It is able to improve concentration and focus, decrease impulsive behavior and improve mood. It is a drink or as a solution or capsule. It is crucial to adhere to the dosage prescribed by your doctor. If you take too much or stop abruptly can cause problems. It is not recommended to drive or operate machines if you are taking this medication. You should also never carry the medication without having a prescription. Always carry proof that you have been prescribed it. It is recommended to carry your medication with you to work or school in case you need it during the day.
Dexamfetamine should be taken with caution in patients with epilepsy history as it may lower the threshold for convulsive seizures. It is not recommended to use in patients who have a history of blood vessel or cardiac problems, such as coronary heart disease or high blood pressure. It is not recommended to use during pregnancy or while nursing. It is excreted from breast milk, which means it could pose a threat for the baby.
If symptoms of ADHD get worse, a consultation with the doctor is recommended. This will help determine if the condition is controlled by medication and if the medication is appropriate. This will allow the doctor to change dosages or switch to other treatments, if required.
A doctor will begin the patient at a lower dose and gradually increase it until they are sure they get the right level of medication for them. It is also recommended to take the tablets at the same time every day, and ideally with food. This will help you remember when to take them, and will reduce the chances of not taking your doses.
In addition to taking medication, individuals with ADHD may benefit from psychoeducation and therapy. This can help children as well as adults cope with their condition. Therapy can help them deal with other issues like depression or anxiety. Psychoeducation is a combination of educational material and support from an experienced professional, while therapeutic therapies can be behavioral or cognitive.
Modafinil
Modafinil is a wakefulness-promoting prescription drug that reduces extreme sleepiness that accompanies conditions such as narcolepsy, obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and shift work sleep disorder. It is also used off-label to treat symptoms of ADHD for adults who are 18 years of age or older. It is not a prescription drug for such usage and should be taken only under the supervision of a doctor. It is only available with a prescription and should be stored in a safe place from children. It is essential to adhere to the instructions on the prescription label and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any aspect of the medication that you do not understand.
The NHS website describes modafinil as being a central nervous system stimulant that helps prevent excessive sleeping throughout the day. It is prescribed to treat narcolepsy however it has been employed off-label to aid people who suffer from Parkinson's Disease and Multiple Sclerosis remain awake and also those suffering from fatigue caused by obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea or shift work. Students, executives and military personnel who must be alert are also common users.
A recent survey of UK students found that one in five have taken a "smart drug" to boost their concentration during their examinations. Jack Rivlin (24), editor of The Tab, a student newspaper based in Farringdon, London told BBC Newsbeat that he purchased modafinil for PS130 on an offshore website last year to help in his revision.
Although he claims he doesn't believe that modafinil can make him smarter, he admits it has helped him to keep up with his class notes and pass the exam. It's important to remember that these drugs are not magic bullets and they can cause serious side effects.
In addition to its wakefulness-promoting effects, modafinil can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems in some patients, especially those with heart disease. Modafinil can also interact negatively with certain medications such as antidepressants or sedatives. You may also develop withdrawal symptoms and become dependent on the drug if suddenly stop taking it.
Modafinil, which is also known as methylphenidate or atomoxetine, is categorized as a class B substance. This means it is illegal to distribute, possess, or sell. If you are found guilty, you could be facing up to five years in prison.