ADHD Medications
Methylphenidate also referred to as Ritalin, is a stimulant medication that stimulates brain activity in areas of the brain that are responsible for controlling attention and behavior. It is the most common ADHD medication prescribed in Europe and the UK. It is available in immediate-release tablets or modified release once daily tablets.
Psychiatrists that specialize in ADHD have a deep understanding of the medications available to treat this condition. Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated first by medication however, talking therapy is also suggested.
Stimulants
Stimulants, the most common type of medication for adhd available, work by increasing the amount neurotransmitters in the synapses (the chemicals that enable brain cells to communicate). This improves concentration and reduces the impulsivity and hyperactivity. They begin to work within 45-60 minutes. Full Survey include medications such as amphetamines like Adderall, Dexedrine and Concerta, and methylphenidate like Ritalin and Concerta.
There are also a number of non-stimulants that have different mechanisms of action. For instance, atomoxetine an inhibitor of serotonin reuptake that increases noradrenaline levels in the brain, which aids in increasing concentration levels. Bupropion (Welbutrin) is not approved for treatment of ADHD but it can be prescribed.
Your psychiatrist will carefully adjust the dose to ensure you achieve the optimal balance of effects, whether you are taking stimulants or non-stimulants. Your psychiatrist will consider how you feel and the most frequent side effects and whether or not the medication is effective. They will usually reassess your prescription regularly.
If you have to stop taking your ADHD medication There are other options like diet pills and caffeine which can help control the symptoms. They should not be used as a substitute for medications. If you're thinking of using them, always consult your physician or psychiatrist.
ADHD medications can be very beneficial for adults and children. They help them focus better, feel more relaxed and are less impulsive. They also assist them to learn and develop new techniques. For this reason, it can be very worrying when these drugs are out of stock. Some adults have reported having to ration their prescriptions or even store them until the shortage is solved.
The short-term supply shortage is caused by a number of factors, such as delays in production and issues with the quotas. There have been shortages, not just in the UK but also in the US.
In the longer term the government has committed to cooperate with manufacturers to ensure the continuity of supply of ADHD medicines, and they are expected to resolve the issue by October at the latest. The NHS encourages people to consult their doctor prior to getting their medication out of stock and to only alter dosage or frequency after consulting their doctor. They can also assist in arranging alternative treatments to keep you healthy and focused. They could, for instance they may recommend cognitive behavior therapy or mindfullness. They can also suggest strategies to improve sleep and reduce stress. This is known as multimodal treatment and has been proven to be the most effective method to treat ADHD. The most effective methods combine medication with lifestyle changes and behavioral therapy. Evidence-based practice is what we call this. The NIHR developed a toolkit which assists clinicians in diagnosing and managing ADHD.