adhd uk medication - Stimulants
Stimulants increase brain chemical levels that aid in concentration, focus and impulse control. Doctors prescribe them in extended-release and immediate release forms. Stimulants include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and amphetamine/dexroamphetamine compounds (Adderall, Vyvanse).
They are the most commonly used medications prescribed to adults with ADHD. Doctors often mix them with antidepressants to enhance their effectiveness.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most common prescription drugs that doctors use to treat ADHD. They increase the levels of brain chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine that allow people to focus and control their impulses. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed stimulant medication used to treat ADHD in children and adults. It is available in liquid and tablet form, and can be taken up to 3 times a every day. The side effects of methylphenidate for teenagers and children could include stomachaches, headaches or changes to appetite. These medicines can also increase heart rate and blood pressure and shouldn't be taken by those who have heart issues.
Stimulants can have long-lasting effects and are usually given in a long-acting formulation which means that the drug is released into the body over the course of 8-12 hours. The long-acting drugs can be particularly useful for people suffering from ADHD who often miss school, work or family responsibilities because of their inability to stay on track. Doctors generally believe that they are safe to use in the right dosages over a long period of time. Studies have shown that they do not have any negative effect on IQ and social interactions.
In the long run, taking stimulants can cause personality changes in some individuals, such as becoming more withdrawn and listless or less talkative and spontaneous. It can also cause mood swings that can lead to depression, which is the reason health professionals generally only recommend using them for brief periods of time. Certain stimulants can lead to addiction.
Nonstimulant medications are a relatively new class of drugs that treat ADHD. They don't directly impact dopamine or norepinephrine, but instead a chemical called noradrenaline in the brain that transmits messages between brain cells. Atomoxetine (trade name Strattera) and Guanfacine (trade name Zyprexa) are two examples of non-stimulant drugs that have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of ADHD.
Nonstimulant medicines take longer to start working however once they do, they can improve people's ability to concentrate and manage their emotions. They can also lessen the signs of impulsivity as well as reduce anxiety. Healthcare providers may prescribe them on their own or in combination with a stimulant.
The nonstimulant and stimulant medications do not perform in the same way for everyone, so it may require a few tries to find the dosage and schedule that is most effective. Doctors closely monitor a person's response to the medication and will make adjustments as needed.
The treatment of ADHD isn't just about taking medication. It's also important that the person with ADHD receive psychosocial therapy. Therapists can help teach strategies to manage symptoms and improve relationships, like time management and organizing strategies. They can also help a person learn how to recognize stress and develop coping strategies. Certain diets have also been shown to be helpful for people suffering from ADHD. However cutting out food items without consulting a physician is not advised.