(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Royal_College_of_Psychiatrists_logo.png)ADHD Medicine For Kids
Some children require multiple ADHD medications to get the best results. Children should take their medicine on a regular basis.
Stimulant medications work to aid normal brain chemicals to improve concentration and control of impulses. They are available in pill form, liquid, or extended-release capsules. The doctor will start you with a lower dose and monitor your reaction to the drug.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate, a stimulant, helps reduce adhd medication and pregnancy uk symptoms and can be used to treat the symptoms of narcolepsy. It boosts the levels of dopamine, which improves concentration and mood. It is a controlled substance which means it must be prescribed by a doctor and can only be bought with a prescription (it is not available on the market). Methylphenidate can be purchased in capsules, tablets or oral solutions, as well as transdermal patches. The type of methylphenidate prescribed will be based on the diagnosis types of adhd medication uk your doctor and other variables.
Methylphenidate could cause side effects, such as stomachache or headache dry mouth, a rapid heartbeat, shakiness and nervousness. It can cause facial tics in some people who experience rapid movements in the muscles of the face that aren't controlled. This is a problem that occurs in less than one in 100 people taking methylphenidate. It's important to notify your doctor immediately if your child or you are experiencing this issue. It also increases blood pressure and heart rate, which your doctor will be monitoring carefully during your treatment. It can also trigger reactions to the skin in certain individuals, like an itch that is swollen and itchy, or raised or blistered, and also a change in the way that blood flows how to get medication for adhd uk the toes and fingers (Raynaud's disease). This is very serious and requires immediate treatment in hospital.
Generally, methylphenidate is considered to be safe for most people if taken as directed. It can, however, cause a dangerous reduction in blood pressure in the event that the dosage is too high or taken too often. It can also make you feel sleepy and dizzy It's not recommended that you operate machinery or drive if you take it.
Methylphenidate is classified as a Schedule II drug, which means it could be abused. It could also trigger addiction in certain people. You should not share your medication. The best way to prevent this is to keep your methylphenidate in a locked cabinet and only take the amount recommended by your doctor.
Amphetamines
Amphétamines are utilized to treat ADHD in children, adolescents as well as adults. They are effective by boosting the levels of certain brain chemicals which improves concentration and helps to manage impulsive behavior. They are also able to help with some symptoms of Tourette's syndrome.
They are available in tablets that release immediately and extended-release capsules, as well as an oral solution. They are controlled drugs in the UK (class C) which means that you'll need to be signed in by a doctor before you can collect the pills. They are typically taken every day but some people will take them twice daily.
Atomoxetine is different from other stimulant medicines. It is available to children and teens over the age of 5 if methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine are not available. It works in a different way than other stimulant medications, but may be offered to children and teenagers over the age of five if it's impossible to use methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine or for adults when the condition is identified within this category. It's usually taken as a capsule once or twice daily.
The use of stimulants is common. It is essential to keep your child or teenager's medication secure, out of sight and reach of your friends and should not be shared or sold to other people. It could be risky to take the medication in the wrong method. For example crushing the pill and injecting it. Certain street drugs, such as MDMA (ecstasy) and methamphetamine, are based on amphetamines.
Amphetamines can trigger addiction and adverse effects that are difficult to deal with particularly in older people. These side effects may include extreme fatigue and irritation. They may also include cravings and a desire to keep taking the drug, and feelings of fatigue. Talk to your doctor if you or your child suffers any of these symptoms.
If you or your child are taking long-acting stimulants, it's important to be aware of a sudden drop in blood pressure when the drug is removed. Contact triple zero (000) or an ambulance, immediately if this happens. This could be dangerous and can lead to a stroke, heart attack, or death. Talking with your doctor can aid you in managing the effects of stopping or reducing the dose, and can provide support and advice.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulants can help people with ADHD remain focused, complete tasks and improve their relationships. However, not everyone is able to respond to this kind of medication. And the side effects- like heart palpitations, anxiety, and a negative effect on sleep and appetite – are usually unpleasant. These issues can stop people from taking the medication they need.
There are methods to alleviate these side effects. Your doctor may reduce the dosage of your medication or switch you to a different medication. Self-help strategies can make a huge difference.
A majority of people who are taking an ADHD medication must be closely monitored by an expert in medical care. It can take up to one month before the medication takes its full effect, therefore it's essential to find the right dosage. The medical professional may ask about your or your child's daily routine and habits to determine what works best for you and will also look into any other health issues that could be causing problems.
Concerta, Focalin, Ritalin SR and Vyvanse are some of the most popular adhd medication well-known stimulants that have a long-lasting effect. They are part of a class of drugs called methylphenidates, and all of them have been in use for a long time. Some are available in chewable tablets and liquid and others can be placed on patches for children who don't want to swallow pills.
Another type of long-acting ADHD medication is the amphetamine category comprising Adderall and Dexedrine. They are more potent and long-lasting effect than methylphenidates, and can be taken in different ways, including in the form of a powder for youngsters who aren't able take pills. Some kids prefer to take these medications mixed with milk or juice.
Strattera (atomoxetine), and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are long-acting stimulants which are not part of the methylphenidate group nor the amphetamine group. They are part of a class of drugs referred to as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They work by increasing the levels of a chemical in the brain called norepinephrine. They also help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Other medications
Non-stimulant medications can be prescribed when stimulants do not work or cause undesirable adverse effects. These medications can take longer to kick in but they can help improve your ability to focus and control impulses. They also help reduce anxiety and depression that may occur with ADHD. Doctors may also recommend therapy to aid in managing your symptoms and improve your behavior or may suggest that you avoid certain food, beverages, or activities that can cause problems for those with ADHD.
Stimulants alter levels of norepinephrine, and dopamine in your brain. Norepinephrine aids in concentration and dopamine helps to increase this concentration. There are 12 drugs approved to treat ADHD. These include methylphenidate hydrochloride, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, amphetamine sulfate, dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride/serdexmethylphenidate chloride, mixed amphetamine salts and atomoxetine (Strattera). Atomoxetine is the first medicine to be approved as a nonstimulant in adults with ADHD. It is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, which essentially means it increases the amount of norepinephrine that is present in the brain. Other drugs that belong to this group are guanfacine chloride (Tenex and Intuniv) and clonidine hydrochloride (Catapres).
Doctors may also prescribe antidepressants, which increase the level of dopamine, a chemical messenger, in the brain. Bupropion is usually prescribed as an antidepressant to treat adult adhd medication in uk (see post). It is prescribed “off-label”, to treat ADHD when it occurs with depression or substance use disorders, especially nicotine addiction and cannabis.
Some experts believe that there is a link between mood and ADHD. Antidepressants could be useful in treating ADHD symptoms, as well as improving mood. The NHS recommends talking to your GP before taking these medicines.
If your GP determines that medication is suitable for you, they will prescribe a dose and begin with small doses, which they will gradually increase over a couple of weeks. Your GP will monitor your health regularly to ensure the treatment is helping and to identify any adverse reactions that may develop. They may refer you to a specialist like a counselor or psychologist, for additional support.