ADHD Medication - What You Need to Know
The number of people who are taking ADHD medication in England has increased dramatically, with the diagnosis of the condition reaching record levels. The medications are prescribed by GPs to aid children and adults with the condition, improving their concentration and reducing hyperactivity.
Practices are asked to determine patients impacted by the supply issues and add alert to the patient's medical records. Patients can make use of leaflets on patient information or a simple leaflet to help them with their discussions.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a mental health condition that affects individuals differently than other people. It can cause issues in learning, organization and staying focused on tasks that require working memory. People with ADHD have trouble paying attention to instructions or conversations at school or work. They could make costly errors if they are not careful. They can't wait for their turn and may blurt out answers even after the speaker has finished.
The signs begin in the early years of childhood. To be diagnosed with ADHD, one must exhibit at minimum six ongoing symptoms that are evident and get in the way of their daily activities in more than one setting (for instance, at school, home, work). People who suffer from ADHD are often very successful in adulthood, but many experience difficulties as they take on more complex jobs, managing relationships, and household chores.
It is not unusual for this condition to remain undiagnosed throughout childhood, especially for women and girls. The symptoms are more subtle in boys and men which is why they are less likely to be reported to the doctor by parents or teachers. If a child has been diagnosed with this condition, they could be prescribed medication.
Many medications used to treat ADHD increase the levels certain neurotransmitters in the brain. These chemicals aid the brain to regulate behaviour and attention. Methylphenidate is among the most frequently prescribed ADHD medications. It is believed to boost concentration by reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity.
The people who suffer from ADHD may be more likely to suffer from other issues, including depression or anxiety, bipolar disorder or addictions. ADHD can also cause financial problems if not treated. This is due to inadequate time management, missing an appointment, late payments, and impulsive purchases.
The best option should you suspect that you suffer from ADHD is to speak with your GP. They aren't able to diagnose you in a formal manner however, they can refer you to an expert. You can also ask to see an individual clinic that provides assessments and ADHD prescriptions. You can pick them up at the local pharmacy, as with any other prescription.
Signs and symptoms
The signs of ADHD appear early, in children between the ages of 3 and 6, and can continue throughout adulthood. In adults, they could cause problems in education as well as relationships at work. It is not unusual for the condition to be undiagnosed and sufferers may end up being mistakenly identified as a dreamer, troublemaker or slacker. As you grow older or into adulthood, it is difficult to deal with symptoms. This can lead to academic failure, career failure, financial problems and problems maintaining friendships and relationships.
Symptoms can include difficulty waiting or sitting still or not completing tasks, as well as being easily distracted. People with the primarily inattentive type of ADHD might also have a tendency to become bored quickly and seek out new experiences. They can't focus on tasks that don't seem exciting or rewarding. They also tend to ignore instructions and commit mistakes.
People with the predominantly hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD might talk out loud while they are listening to other people, interrupt or intrude on others' conversations and games, or start or stop activities without permission. They can't wait to be the first to play and have difficulty playing or doing leisure activities without interruption. They are easily annoyed and often rush into activities without thinking about the consequences.
Environmental and genetic factors influence the brains of ADHD sufferers. Certain genes are linked to the disorder. It is also believed that low birthweight, smoking during pregnancy, and exposure to toxic substances during pregnancy increase the chance of having a child that has ADHD. There is also evidence that certain diets can impact the way that a person suffering from ADHD behaves, however cutting out foods should not be done without medical advice.
The three primary drugs used to treat ADHD include dexamphetamine, atomoxetine, and methylphenidate. There are many other medications available, and patients are able to switch between them based on their tolerance and reaction. The Royal College of GPs warned that if current shortages were not addressed, they would increase. Patients may not be able to access treatment. GPs should consult their local ADHD service and discuss alternative options for treatment. Some GPs and ADHD services are offering information on substitutes for methylphenidate such as clonidine or Guanfacine. It is safe to take a break from atomoxetine and methylphenidate, such as over the weekend. However, it is best to consult your GP first.
Diagnosis
ADHD is usually diagnosed by a psychiatrist after an extensive assessment, which includes description of symptoms from the patient and their family members, questionnaires or scales completed by the individual and their family members and teachers, a psychiatric history, and details about the individual's education, surroundings and growing up. In many countries, a psychiatrist or another mental health professional must diagnose ADHD in adults. Ask the psychiatrist about their knowledge and experience in adult ADHD in the event that you decide to see a private physician to begin your treatment. If a psychiatrist is unwilling to provide this information, you should be cautious and think about finding another expert.
A psychiatrist or other mental specialist should determine whether the symptoms were present in the early years of your life. Your symptoms must have affected your life for a long period of time and caused problems in multiple situations to warrant an adult diagnosis. A psychiatrist could review your school records and ask you to write about the way your symptoms have impacted your life.
Your doctor will discuss with you the dosage and schedule of your medication. Stimulants are the most common treatments for ADHD. They affect the neurotransmitters levels in your brain. This improves attention and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. These medications typically take between 45 to 60 minutes before they begin working and are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream.
Certain people are able to take certain kinds of ADHD medications. These include amphetamines, methylphenidate (including methylphenidate "immediate release" and methylphenidate "extended release") as well as atomoxetine and dexamphetamine. It is common to take a break from these medications over the weekends and during school holidays. However you should only take it with your doctor's permission.
You should only take ADHD medications under the guidance of a trained medical professional, and you should not give your prescription to anyone else or take it from anyone else. National Health Service GPs must evaluate every new patient for ADHD before prescribing medications. The waiting list for ADHD medications is long. NHS England has set up an ADHD taskforce to speed up the process of waiting.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD include behavioural therapy and medication. These two treatments are extremely effective for many people. The effectiveness of medication is high and well-known and safe, and it can reduce symptoms. It is important to remember that medication is not an effective cure. It only works when taken regularly.
The most common treatment for ADHD is medication that stimulates the brain. This is applicable to adults and children. They are effective by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain that allow nerve cells to communicate. They are available in two forms either long-acting or short-acting. The psychiatric physician carefully adjusts the dosage of medications to ensure side effects are properly managed and that the proper dosage is prescribed. This is a process called "dosage optimization.".
A number of different medications can be used to treat ADHD including methylphenidate (methylphenidate immediate release, and methylphenidate 'extended release'), atomoxetine, dexamphetamine and modafinil. Clonidine and guanfacine can also be used to treat ADHD. There is a huge supply of these medications at the moment in the UK.
People with ADHD often have a range of co-morbidities alongside their ADHD diagnosis; these include depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. It is recommended that those with a co-morbidity have a comprehensive treatment plan and that all relevant healthcare providers are involved in their care.
adhd medication pregnancy is currently developing a new model of care for adults suffering from neurodiversity that recognizes that not everyone has the same requirements, and that there could be connections between physical health and mental problems. There will be a shift to more individualised services, with patients being able to access multidisciplinary teams that can assist their needs and address their concerns in a collaborative manner.
Patients who are under primary care maintenance and are currently on an ADHD prescription should contact their local specialist service for advice on dosage adjustment or accept that the patient be taken to a treatment break. GPs are also advised not to issue any additional 30 day supply of these medicines as they could cause supply issues.