5 Myths About ADHD Medication UK That You Should Avoid

Non Prescription ADHD Medication UK GPs may also suggest alternative treatments, like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or alternative medications. Herbal remedies and supplements claiming to help ADHD are also available. The medications for ADHD can be classified into stimulants and non-stimulants. The stimulants are the most popular ADHD meds and are favored by both children and adults. 1. Methylphenidate Methylphenidate is a medication that can be used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. It can be used to treat the condition of narcolepsy. It is a central nerve system stimulant that works by improving the flow of dopamine and norepinephrine to the brain. It assists people with ADHD to focus and concentrate. This medication is available in different strengths and forms, such as tablets liquid, capsules, and a patch for the skin. Methylphenidate could cause side effects like an irregular pulse or a change in blood pressure, or even a rash. You should tell your doctor about any side effects. Methylphenidate can also trigger facial tics. These are uncontrollable, sudden movements. You should call the 999 number if you are experiencing these symptoms. If you have diabetes or heart problems and are taking methylphenidate you should talk to your doctor. It is also not recommended to combine this medication alongside other stimulant drugs or antidepressants. Some people do not respond to methylphenidate. In this instance, your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as the use of behavioural therapy or other therapies. adhd and medication is also essential to observe your diet when you are taking methylphenidate. It is recommended to avoid foods that contain nicotine or caffeine since they can trigger the adverse effects. Methylphenidate can impact growth in children, which is why your child's doctor will check their weight and height regularly. This medication should not be administered to children under the age of six years old, since its safety and effectiveness has not been proven in this age group. Consult your physician if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. 2. Amphetamine Amphetamine is a stimulant for the brain's receptors, increasing the activity of neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin that are associated with mood, movement and attention. It has been studied for a variety of conditions, but is now mostly used to treat ADHD, and less often depression, narcolepsy and obesity. Amphetamines have been shown to reduce irritability, restlessness and impulsive behavior among children with ADHD. They also help improve their school performance and decrease the need for medication. The most commonly prescribed amphetamines in the UK are the methylphenidate family of drugs (which includes Ritalin) and amphetamine salts such as Adderall. Methylphenidate medicines are short-acting and last for two to three hours whereas amphetamine salts have a long-lasting effect and last up to eight hours. The side effects of stimulants are an increase in blood pressure, heart rate, headaches, nausea teeth clenching, jaw clenching as well as weight loss. However, these are generally not severe. Some people try to self-medicate with illicit drugs containing the same chemical structure as amphetamines such as methamphetamine, ephedrine, MDMA (ecstasy), and 2,5-dimethoxy-4-methylamphetamine (DOM) but this can be dangerous and even fatal. The risk of this can be increased in those with certain pre-existing conditions such as heart disease or mental health issues. There are also ADHD medications available that work in a different way and don't contain stimulants. One such medication is Atomoxetine. It is licensed to treat ADHD in the UK and is a drug that blocks specific receptors in your brain. It takes a little longer to take affect than stimulants, but can provide stable 24-hour control over ADHD symptoms. 3. Lisdexamfetamine Lisdexamfetamine also referred to as Vyvanse is a stimulant that is used to treat ADHD. It affects the brain by the alteration of the balance between two chemical compounds that are norepinephrine and dopamine. It assists in regulating the impulsive behavior of children and improves concentration. It is prescribed as a short-acting or a long-acting medication. It will reach its maximum absorption in the body within one to three-and-a-half hours after taking a dose and it remains in the body for up to 14 hours. It's an atomoxetine based drug that differs from other stimulants in that it doesn't increase blood flow. Instead, it increases the chemical noradrenaline that transmits information between brain cells. This may help improve concentration and decrease the impulsive behavior. It is available to adults, teenagers and children older than 5 years old as the first option for treating ADHD or to adults in the event that the methylphenidate medication does not work. It is available in capsule form and is generally taken once daily. Lisdexamfetamine can raise heart rate and blood pressure It is important to inform your doctor if there are heart problems or high blood pressure. If you have an history of heart issues, high cholesterol or hardening arteries, your doctor could advise that you do not take this medication. Before you start taking lisdexamfetamine your doctor will conduct a physical exam and blood tests to confirm that your heart and blood vessel health is suitable for this medication. 4. Dexedrine Dexedrine, a stimulant is used to treat ADHD. It helps by improving focus and decreasing impulsivity and hyperactivity. It also helps to improve listening skills and task organization. It can be purchased as tablets that are short-acting or long-acting. It is prescribed for adults and children. It should not be taken by breastfeeding or pregnant women. Patients with these conditions may suffer serious adverse reactions. Before you start taking this medication, it is crucial to inform your doctor if ever had bipolar disorder, depression, or tics. It is important to adhere to the prescriptions of your doctor when you are taking this medication. If you overdose, it can be dangerous and lead to mental or physical dependence. Always read the Medication Guide included with your prescriptions and refills. The effects of stimulants also increase the levels of two neurotransmitters: dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves concentration, decreases fatigue, and improves motivation. They are usually prescribed as the initial course of treatment for ADHD. They are Schedule II drugs, which means they are federally regulated and controlled. They have a high risk of abuse and dependence. In the past, stimulants were thought to slow down the development of children. This is why parents were advised to give their children “medication holidays” during the school holidays or on weekends. This is no longer true. Most experts believe that ADHD stimulants are safe and effective for most children. These medications can be a part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes psychiatric treatment, psychoeducation, and ongoing community support. 5. Dextrostat Dextrostat is a kind of central nervous system stimulant medication that is prescribed to treat attention-deficit disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. It works in this condition by increasing the activity of two neurotransmitters namely norepinephrine and dopamine, that are found in the brain. This increases focus and decreases anxiety in those with ADHD. It can be used in combination with educational and psychosocial therapy. It can be taken in the form of a tablet or capsule. This medication is not recommended by children who are less than 3 years of age. Stimulants are often the first prescription medication doctors give to treat ADHD for children and adults older than 5 years old. These drugs act by stimulating the parts of the brain that regulate attention and behaviour. They may also increase levels of certain natural chemicals within the brain, such as norepinephrine and dopamine, which increases concentration and reduces restlessness. There are a myriad of stimulants. It is essential that doctors select the best one for each patient according to their medical background, genetics, and prior side effects. Some stimulants are not suitable for adolescents or children who have medical conditions that are underlying. For example, methylphenidate can cause high blood pressure or heart problems in some young patients. Additionally, certain stimulants are not approved for use for adolescents or teenagers who suffer from mental health issues like bipolar disorder or depression. Patients should speak with a specialist about their symptoms before taking any ADHD medication. Non-stimulants are usually prescribed to adults who cannot tolerate or get benefit from stimulant medication. These are usually medications that aren't FDA approved for treating ADHD. Examples include atomoxetine and guanfacine and viloxazine. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) and other antidepressants can also be effective in treating ADHD. Before beginning any treatment, it is crucial to consult your doctor if you suffer from heart disease.