Some children need to take more than one ADHD medicine to get the best results. Children should take their medicine regularly.
Stimulant drugs work by helping normal brain chemicals improve concentration and regulate impulses. They are available in liquid form extended-release capsules or pill form. The doctor will start you with a low dosage and then monitor your reaction to the drug.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a stimulant that can be used to treat narcolepsy and ADHD symptoms. It boosts the levels of dopamine, which improves concentration and mood. It is a controlled drug, meaning that it must be prescribed by a physician and can only be bought on prescription (it is not available on the market). Methylphenidate is available as tablets, capsules or oral solutions, as well as transdermal patches. The type of methylphenidate prescribed depends on the diagnosis of your doctor and other factors.
Methylphenidate can cause adverse reactions such as a headache or stomachache dry mouth, a rapid heartbeat, shakiness or anxiety. It may also trigger facial tics in certain people who experience sudden movements of the muscles in the face that can't be controlled. This is a problem that occurs in less than one in 100 people who take methylphenidate. It's important to notify your doctor right away if your child or you start experiencing this type of problem. It may also cause an increase in heartbeat and blood pressure that your doctor will closely watch when you're taking it. It can also cause reactions to the skin in certain people, such as swelling and itchy, or raised or blistered, as well as a alteration in the way blood flows to the fingers and toes (Raynaud's disease). This is a serious condition and requires immediate treatment at a hospital.
In general, methylphenidate is able to be considered safe by the majority of people, if used as directed. However, it could cause a significant lower blood pressure if the dosage is too high or it's taken too often. It can also make people feel sleepy or dizzy. It is not recommended to operate machines while taking it.
Methylphenidate is rated as a Schedule II drug, which means it could be abused. It can also become habit-forming for some people, which is why it is important to be cautious not to give your medication to anyone else. The best way to help prevent this is to keep your methylphenidate locked in a cupboard and use only the amount prescribed by your physician.
Amphetamines
Amphétamines are used to treat ADHD in adolescents, children as well as adults. They help by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, improving concentration and helping to control impulsive behaviour. They may also help with certain symptoms of Tourette's.
These medicines are available in tablets with immediate release and extended-release capsules as well being an oral solution. In the UK, they are controlled medications (class C) which means you must be signed in by your physician to receive them. The majority of people take them once every week, however some people may take them twice.
Atomoxetine is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. It is different from other stimulant drugs. It is available to teenagers and children older than 5 years old, when methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine aren't available or to adults suffering from an illness that has been diagnosed. It is typically taken as a capsule, at least once or twice a day.
Stimulant drugs are commonly abused. Make sure your child's or teen's medications out of out of the reach of your friends. They are not to be sold or shared. It is risky to take the medication in the wrong way. For instance crushing the medication and injecting it. Certain street drugs are based on the structure of amphetamines, including methamphetamine and MDMA (ecstasy).
Amphetamines are addictive and can cause adverse effects that can be difficult to manage, especially for older people. These adverse effects could include extreme exhaustion and irritability. They may also include cravings for the drug, a desire to continue taking the drug, and a feeling of extreme fatigue. Talk to your doctor in the event that you or your child suffers any of these side-effects.
If you or your child is taking long-acting stimulants, you need to be aware of the risk of a sudden drop in blood pressure when the drug is removed. Contact triple zero (000) or an ambulance, as soon as this happens. This could be risky and can lead to a stroke, heart attack, or even death. Talking to your doctor can help you manage the effects of stopping or reducing the dose, and can offer support and guidance.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulants can help those with ADHD focus to complete their tasks and improve their relationships. However, not everyone responds to this class of medication. The side effects- like heart palpitations, anxiety and a negative effect on sleep and appetite -- are usually uncomfortable. These problems can keep people from taking the medication they need.
There are many ways to alleviate these side effects. Your doctor may reduce the dose of your medication or switch you to another one. Self-help strategies can make a massive difference.
Most people who are taking an ADHD medication must be closely monitored by a medical professional. It takes up to a month before the medication can take its full effect, therefore it's essential to find the right dosage. The doctor will inquire about your daily routine and habits and also any other health issues you or your child may have.
Concerta, Focalin, Ritalin SR and Vyvanse are a few of the most popular long-acting stimulants. All of these are part of a group of drugs known as methylphenidates. They have been around for a number of years. Some of them are available as chewable tablets and liquids as well as applied to skin patches for children who aren't keen on swallowing pills.
Adderall, Dexedrine and other amphetamine-based online adhd medication medications are also available. They have a stronger and long-lasting effect than methylphenidates, and they can be taken in different ways, such as as a powder for some younger children who can't take pills. Some kids prefer to take these pills mixed with juice or milk.
Strattera (atomoxetine), and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are long-acting stimulants which do not belong to the methylphenidate group or the amphetamine group. They are in a group of drugs referred to as selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They are able to increase the levels of a chemical in the brain known as norepinephrine. They can also lessen the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Other medicines
Non-stimulant medications can be prescribed in cases where stimulants don't work or cause unpleasant side effects. These drugs take longer to start working, but they can improve your ability to concentrate and control your impulses. They can also help to reduce anxiety and depression, which can occur in conjunction with adhd medication adderall uk. Doctors might also suggest therapy to teach you skills to manage your symptoms and to improve your behavior, or they might suggest you avoid certain foods, beverages or activities that are known to cause problems for those with ADHD.
Stimulants alter levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. Norepinephrine enhances concentration, whereas dopamine helps to improve it. There are 12 approved drugs to treat ADHD. These include methylphenidate hydrochloride, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, amphetamine sulfate, dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride/serdexmethylphenidate chloride, mixed amphetamine salts and atomoxetine (Strattera). Atomoxetine was the first medicine that was approved for adults suffering from ADHD as a nonstimulant. It is a selective inhibitor of norepinephrine uptake, which means that it increases the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. Other drugs in this class include Guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv), and clonidine (Catapres).
Doctors might prescribe antidepressants that increase the level of the chemical messenger dopamine in the brain. Bupropion is the most commonly prescribed antidepressant used for adults with ADHD. It is prescribed "off-label" to treat ADHD when it occurs with depression or substance abuse disorders, specifically cannabis and nicotine addiction.
There are some experts who believe there is a connection between mood and adhd medication prescription uk and antidepressants could help in treating ADHD symptoms and improving your mood. The NHS suggests speaking with your GP prior to taking these medications.
If your GP determines that medication is right for you, they'll prescribe a dose and start you on small doses which they will gradually increase over a couple of weeks. Your GP will check on you regularly to make sure the treatment is effective and to look for any adverse reactions that may develop. They may also refer you to specialists, such as counsellors or psychologists for further assistance.