Non Prescription ADHD Medication UK
Other treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and alternative therapies could be suggested by GPs. Herbal remedies and supplements that claim to help ADHD are also available.
Medications for ADHD can be categorised into stimulants and non-stimulants. The stimulants are the most popular ADHD medications and are highly sought-after by both children and adults.
1. Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a drug that can be used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. It is also used to treat the narcolepsy disorder. It is a central nerve system stimulant that works by improving the flow of dopamine and norepinephrine to the brain. It also helps people who suffer from ADHD concentrate and focus better. This medication is available in different strengths and forms like capsules, tablets and liquid.
Methylphenidate could cause adverse effects, such as an irregular heartbeat, a change in blood pressure or a skin rash. You should tell your doctor about any side effects. Methylphenidate can also trigger facial tics. These are uncontrollable, sudden movements. It is recommended to call the 999 number if you are experiencing these symptoms. If you have diabetes or heart problems and are taking methylphenidate then you should consult your doctor. It is also not recommended to take this medicine alongside other stimulant drugs or antidepressants.
Some people do not respond to methylphenidate. In this instance, a doctor might suggest alternative therapies, such as psychotherapy or behavioural therapy. You should also adhere to your diet when taking methylphenidate. It is best to avoid eating foods that contain nicotine or caffeine, since this can cause side effects of the drug.
Methylphenidate can affect growth in children, so your doctor will be monitoring your child's weight and height regularly. It is not recommended to give this medication to a child younger than six years old, since it's not proven safe and effective in that age group. Inform adhd medication pregnancy if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
2. Amphetamine
Amphetamine stimulates the brain's receptors, thereby increasing the activity of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, which are linked to movement, mood and attention. It has been trialed for a wide range of ailments, but is now mostly used to treat ADHD and, less frequently, depression, narcolepsy, or obesity. Amphetamines are known to help children with ADHD by reducing their anxiety and irritability, inability to pay attention, and impulsive behaviour. They also help improve their performance at school and reduce the need for medication.
In the UK, the most commonly prescribed amphetamines are the medication methylphenidate (which include Ritalin) and so-called amphetamine sodiums like Adderall. The methylphenidate drugs have a brief-acting duration of two to three hours, whereas the amphetamines salts can last for up to eight hours.
Stimulants have been known to cause side effects, which include an increase in blood pressure and heart rate and appetite loss, stomach upset, headaches jaw clenching or grinding of teeth weight loss, changes to sleeping patterns, and occasionally psychosis. These side effects aren't generally 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 higher for those who have pre-existing conditions such as heart disease or mental health issues.
Other ADHD medications are available that function differently and don't contain stimulants. One such medication is atomoxetine. It has been licensed to treat ADHD in UK and works by blocking certain receptors in your brain. It takes a little longer to be effective than stimulants, however it can offer a steady, 24-hour treatment for ADHD symptoms.
3. Lisdexamfetamine
Lisdexamfetamine also referred to as Vyvanse is a stimulant used to treat ADHD. It affects the brain through the alteration of the balance between two chemicals called norepinephrine and dopamine. It assists in regulating impulsive behavior and improves concentration. It is prescribed as a short-acting or long-acting medication. It is absorbed to its maximum within one to three and a half hour after taking a dose, and stays in the system for up to fourteen hours.
It is a medication made from atomoxetine, which differs from other stimulants in that it doesn't increase blood flow. It increases a chemical referred to as noradrenaline which is responsible for transferring information between brain cells. This can help with concentration and reduce impulsive behavior. It is available to adolescents, adults and children above 5 years of age as a first-choice medicine for ADHD or to adults when methylphenidate isn't effective. It is available in capsule form and is usually taken once daily.
Lisdexamfetamine may raise blood pressure and heart rate. Inform your doctor if you have heart issues or high blood pressure. If you have an history of heart issues, high cholesterol or hardening arteries, your doctor might advise that you do not take this medication. Before you start taking lisdexamfetamine, you doctor will perform an examination of your body and blood tests to make sure that your blood vessel and heart health is suitable for this medication.
4. Dexedrine
Dexedrine is a stimulant medication that helps treat ADHD. It works by enhancing focus and decreasing impulsivity and hyperactivity. It also helps to improve listening skills and task management. It is available in a short-acting tablet or long-acting capsule form. It is prescribed to both children and adults. Nursing mothers and pregnant women are not advised to take it. These patients may experience serious adverse effects. It is important to disclose any medical history of bipolar disorder tics, or depression to your doctor before taking this medication.
It is important to follow the directions of your doctor when you are taking this medication. If you take too much it could be hazardous and can lead to physical or mental dependence. Always read the Medication Guide that comes with your prescription and refills.
The effects of stimulants also increase the levels of two neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine. This helps to improve concentration, reduce fatigue and boosts motivation. These drugs are used as a first-line treatment option for ADHD. In contrast to non-stimulants, they're federally controlled Schedule II drugs and have a high potential for abuse and dependence.
In the past, it was believed that stimulants might slow a child's growth. Parents were advised to give their children "medication breaks" during holidays or weekends.
However, this is no any longer the case. The majority of experts believe that ADHD stimulants are safe and effectively for the majority of children. These medications can be a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes psychoeducation, psychiatric therapy, and ongoing community support.
5. Dextrostat
Dextrostat, a central nervous system stimulant is prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as well as narcolepsy. It helps by increasing the activity in the brain of two neurotransmitters: norepinephrine, and dopamine. This increases focus and reduces anxiety for those who suffer from ADHD. It can be used in conjunction with educational and psychosocial therapy. It can be taken in the form of a capsule or tablet. This medicine is not recommended for use in children who are less than three years old.
Stimulants are often the first prescription medication doctors give to treat ADHD among adults and children older than 5 years old. These drugs stimulate the areas of the brain that regulate the behavior and attention. They can also boost the levels of certain natural brain chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, which enhances focus and decreases anxiety. There are many types of stimulants. It is essential that doctors select the best one for each patient according to their medical background, genetics, and prior adverse reactions.
Certain stimulants are not suitable for adolescents or children who have chronic health issues. For instance, methylphenidate may cause high blood pressure or heart problems in some children. In addition, some stimulants are not approved to be used in adolescents or teens suffering from mental health issues such as depression or bipolar disorder. Patients with these conditions should consult an expert about their symptoms prior to taking any ADHD medication.
Non-stimulants are often prescribed for people who are unable to find benefits from stimulant drugs. These are typically medications that do not have FDA approval for treating ADHD such as Atomoxetine (Prozac), guanfacine (Avanza) and viloxazine (Fastin). Certain antidepressants can be used to treat ADHD, including bupropion (Wellbutrin). It is important for people with heart disease to talk with their doctor prior to starting this type of treatment.
