adhd medication uk - Stimulant Or Non Stimulant?
Stimulant medications are the first choice of ADHD drugs, have the most research-based backing behind them, and are quick-acting. But they're not right for everyone.
These medications boost the communication between nerves and brain regions to lessen ADHD symptoms. They can also cause negative side effects, such as an appetite loss and changes in blood pressure or heart rate.
Stimulants
The most commonly used medication to treat ADHD is stimulants. They are known for increasing the amount of time spent in school, decreasing impulsivity and hyperactivity and improving concentration and discipline. They also can increase the heart rate and blood pressure and can be harmful for certain people. The use of stimulants is for medical and non-medical purposes including recreational drugs as weight loss aids, and illicit drugs like cocaine, methamphetamine or other synthetic cathinones (bath salts) and MDMA/ecstasy.
The two main stimulant medications prescribed for ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. They're both available in a variety of forms, including pills, liquids, skin patches and chewable tablets. Amphetamines, the oldest and most well-known of these medications are becoming less prescribed. These medications work by altering the way neurotransmitters receptors, as well as other brain chemicals are used to decrease ADHD symptoms.
The majority of stimulant medicines are considered first-line treatments, though some doctors may choose to prescribe them as second-line treatments or as a combination therapy. The benefits of stimulants are providing rapid symptom relief and can be felt within hours of taking them. However, it may require several weeks of regular use for these drugs to be effective.
They come in immediate-release and extended-release versions. This flexibility lets you to alter your dosage to meet your needs. The immediate-release medications start working as soon as you swallow them. This is a great option for situations where you want to control symptoms quickly, for instance during a test or if you're involved in a sports event or at work.
Extended-release stimulant medications are designed to release active ingredients over a prolonged time frame, typically throughout the entire day. This helps to keep a steady amount of the medication in your body, which will increase compliance and overall adhesion to your treatment plan.
They are generally safe to take if you follow the instructions from your doctor and avoid other medications or substances that interact with them. These are mostly controlled substances because of their potential for abuse. medication for adhd will require a prescription before you start taking these medications.
Some medications that aren't considered stimulants include the newer atomoxetine (brand name Strattera) and Guanfacine (brand names Clonidine XR, XR and Qelbree). Both drugs target the chemical in the brain called norepinephrine, blocking its absorption. These drugs are effective in reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity, but they don't improve your concentration as effectively as stimulants.
Always discuss your options with a physician. Every medication has its own side effects and may affect people differently. medication for adhd is important to remain honest with your doctor about how you feel about the medication, so that you can adjust the dosage if needed. Talk to your doctor when you plan to become pregnant or breastfeeding because some of these drugs can pass through breast milk. You should also talk to your doctor if you suffer from any other health concerns, such as heart conditions, which can impact the effectiveness of these medications.