Why UK ADHD Medication Is Everywhere This Year
ADHD Medication in the UK
ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist when they are able to make a diagnosis. The NHS is currently experiencing a shortage of central nervous system stimulants, such as ADHD medications.
The shortage is due to manufacturing issues and a rise in global demand. The shortage is expected to be cured between December 2023 and October 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is an abbreviation for a mixture of amphétamine salts. It's a potent stimulant that, when taken correctly aids people suffering from ADHD focus and stay focused. It also helps them manage their impulses. It is prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy.
The FDA approved the first medication that treated both conditions. It is a central nerve stimulant that boosts norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters inside the brain. The increased levels of these chemicals help in concentration and boost alertness in people with narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to those suffering from ADHD in tablets or liquid. Read the Full Report is a medication that can be taken on a regular basis or as needed to manage symptoms. People who use Adderall may experience adverse effects, including headaches, stomach upset and dry mouth. Certain people may develop tolerance to the medication and may have to take more than what their doctor prescribes to get the same result.
People who suffer from certain heart diseases should not use stimulants, such as Adderall. They can increase anxiety and raise heart rate, which can be dangerous for those with heart disease or heart issues. Before taking Adderall, those with glaucoma, liver or kidney issues should also consult with their physician. 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.
Stimulants may slow down growth in children but the effect is minimal and most kids catch up when they reach adulthood. They can also cause psychosis which is a combination of hallucinations, delusions, and other symptoms.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it has an extremely high abuse potential. People who do not have ADHD are able to use Adderall in order to feel more energetic and shed weight. People who are using it illegally tend to mix it with other substances, such as cocaine, to boost the effects. It is also a factor in tests for drug screening for athletics or work.
3. Concerta
Concerta, just like Adderall and Vyvanse is an extended-release drug that is taken in the morning. It is believed to work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine, and dopamine in the brain. This can help improve concentration and other symptoms of ADHD. It is important to take this medication according to the dosage prescribed by a doctor. Do not increase your dosage without consulting your doctor. This can result in negative side negative effects. It is also recommended to keep Concerta in a safe place out of the reach of children and at room temperature.
Insomnia is another common side effect that can make it difficult to sleep. It is best to take the medication at the same time each day. You can keep track of your medication using a timer or pill reminder. This medication is in pregnancy category C. It is only recommended to use it if the benefits outweigh the risks to the developing baby. It is not advised to use methylphenidate for a long time, as it may lead to dependency.
This medication can also trigger tics. These are unintentional, repeated motions or sounds. This can be characterized by head bobbing, eye blinking and humming. Most people don't experience this however if you do, speak to your doctor.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a medication that can be used to treat ADHD in children and adults. It contains dexmethylphenidate, which stimulates the central nervous system and reduces impulsivity in ADHD patients.
Similar to other stimulant drugs, Focalin can help increase levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are responsible for communication between nerve cells and increase attention, vigilance and control of impulses. This makes them efficient ADHD treatment medications. Focalin dosages vary based on the age of the patient, and is either long-acting or short-acting. The short-acting tablets are called immediate-release whereas the longer-acting tablets are referred to as extended-release.
The long-term use of focalin can result in serious side effects. The drug has been linked with depression, specifically in those who are not predisposed. This is because the drug causes neurotransmitters to stay elevated for a prolonged time. This is why Joanna Moncrieff, professor of psychiatry at University College London has spent many years fighting what she believes is the over-prescription of stimulant medications to treat mental disorders.
Certain people may also experience psychomotor retardation and agitation with Focalin. Some people may experience a feeling of euphoria and mildly euphoric. Other typical Focalin side effects include sleeplessness and the feeling of drowsiness. Additionally, patients may occasionally develop tolerance to the drug, where they require greater and higher doses to achieve the same effect. This could result in dependence and addiction.
To reduce the risk of Focalin addiction, doctors should regularly reassess their patients' risk and look for indicators and signs of abuse, misuse or addiction. They should advise patients to keep the medication in a safe place and not to give it to anyone else. They should also inform patients on the dangers of accidental overdoses and teach them how to dispose of unused medicine.
Unlike other ADHD medication, Focalin does not take effect right away. The effects of the drug start within two to three hours after taking it and last for as long as four hours. This is why it's commonly prescribed in conjunction with other non-medication therapies, like cognitive behavior therapy.