ADHD Medication - What You Need to Know
The number of people in England taking ADHD medication has grown dramatically. The number of people diagnosed with the condition have reached record levels. Medications are prescribed by GPs to help both adults and children suffering from the condition, increasing concentration and reducing hyperactivity.
Practices are asked to identify patients who are affected by supply issues and to add alerts to the patient's medical records. Patient information leaflets and an easy-to-read leaflet are available to support conversations with patients.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is an illness of the mind that affects a variety of people. It can lead to problems with learning, organization and staying focused on tasks that require working memory. People with ADHD also have difficulty being attentive in conversations or following instructions at work or school. They are prone to making costly mistakes if they are not careful. They struggle to wait for their turn, and might blurt out answers before the person who is speaking has finished.
The signs begin in childhood. The person must display at least six signs that persist and interfere with daily functioning (such as at school, home or work). Adults who suffer from ADHD have the potential to be extremely successful however they may struggle to manage family relationships, manage household chores, and take on more complex tasks.
It is not unusual for this condition to go undiagnosed throughout childhood, particularly in girls and women. Parents and teachers might not be aware of the symptoms for males or boys because they are more subtle. If the child is diagnosed with the condition, they may be put on medication.
Many of the medications used to treat ADHD boost the levels of certain brain neurotransmitters. These chemicals aid the brain to regulate attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is known under the brand name Ritalin is among the most frequently prescribed drugs for ADHD. It is believed to enhance concentration by reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Those with ADHD might be more likely to have other issues, including depression bipolar disorder, anxiety or addictions. ADHD can also lead to financial issues if it is not treated. This is due to poor time management, missed appointments, late payments and impulse purchases.
The best thing to do if you think you have ADHD is to speak to your GP. They can't formally diagnose you but they may refer you to a specialist. Alternatively, you can ask to see a private clinic, which provides assessments and prescriptions for ADHD medication. They will then send them to your local pharmacy for you to pick up, just like other prescriptions.
Signs and symptoms
ADHD symptoms can manifest in children as young as 3 to 6 years old and persist throughout adulthood. Adults can have difficulties with relationships, education, and work. It is not unusual to have the condition go not diagnosed. People may spend time being misdiagnosed and mistakenly labeled as a dreamer, slacker or troublemaker. As you grow older or into adulthood, it is difficult to compensate for symptoms. This could lead to academic inability and career failure, financial problems, and difficulties maintaining relationships and friendships.
The signs include trouble sitting down or waiting for others to finish their work, failing to finish tasks and being easily distracted. People with the primarily inattentive kind of ADHD may also have a tendency to get bored quickly and want new experiences. They are unable to stay focused on tasks that are not enjoyable or rewarding, and often miss instructions or make 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 aren't able to wait for their turn and have trouble playing or engaging in leisure activities at a secluded location. They can easily become frustrated and are often prone to jumping into activities without considering the consequences.
Environmental and genetic factors influence the brains of ADHD sufferers. Some genes are associated with the disorder. It is also believed that a low birth weight smoking during pregnancy and exposure to toxic substances during pregnancy increase the likelihood of having a child who has ADHD. There is evidence that suggests that certain diets can affect the behavior of a person with ADHD but it is crucial to consult a doctor before eliminating any food.
The three most popular drugs used to treat ADHD include atomoxetine, dexamphetamine and methylphenidate. There are many other drugs available, and people can switch between them based on their tolerance and reaction. The Royal College of GPs has warned that if current shortages aren't addressed, the problem will grow and patients could end up being unable access treatment. GPs should consult their local ADHD service and discuss alternative treatment options. Some doctors and ADHD services are providing information on alternatives to methylphenidate such as clonidine or guanfacine. It is also safe to take breaks from atomoxetine and methylphenidate, for example over the weekend, but it is important to speak with your GP or ADHD service first for advice.
Diagnosis
A psychiatrist will diagnose ADHD following a thorough examination. This includes a detailed description of the symptoms provided by the patient and their family members, scales and questionnaires that are completed by the person, their relatives, and teachers along with a psychiatric background and information about the person's childhood, education, and environment. In many countries, a psychiatrist or other mental health professional is required to determine ADHD in adults. Ask the psychiatrist about their level of knowledge and experience in adult ADHD if you decide to consult an individual doctor to begin your treatment. If a professional is reluctant to provide you with this information, be cautious and think about finding another professional.
A psychiatrist or other mental health professional will be required to determine the severity of the symptoms if they were present since childhood. To be considered to be diagnosed as an adult your symptoms must have interfered with your life for a lengthy period of time, and caused problems in various situations. To confirm your symptoms specialist psychiatrists may inquire to review your school records and speak to you about how your issues have affected your life.
If you decide to start taking medication, your specialist will discuss the right dosage and schedule with you. Stimulants are the most popular drugs used to treat ADHD. They affect the levels of neurotransmitters in your brain, increasing attention and reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity. These drugs typically take 45 to 60 minutes to start working and are rapidly absorbed into bloodstreams.
Some people are only capable of taking certain types ADHD medications. They include methylphenidate (methylphenidate "immediate release" and methylphenidate 'extended release'), amphetamines, atomoxetine, and dexamphetamine. Many people can break from these medicines on holidays and weekends, though you should stop taking them only on an advice from a doctor.
You should only take ADHD medication under the supervision of a medical professional. It is not advisable to give away your prescription or receive it from anyone else. The GPs of the National Health Service must examine every new patient before prescribing medication for ADHD, and the waiting list for ADHD medications can be lengthy. The NHS England has created an ADHD taskforce to try and cut the wait times.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD include medication and behavioural therapy. These two therapies are extremely beneficial for many people. It is extremely effective and is well understood and safe, and can help to reduce symptoms. However, it is important to remember that it is not a cure for ADHD. It only works if taken regularly.
The most common treatment for ADHD is medication that stimulates the brain. adhd and medication includes both adults and children. They function by increasing neurotransmitters that allow nerve cells communicate in the brain. The medications are available in two forms that are short-acting and long-acting. Psychologists carefully adjust the dosage of medication to ensure side effects are properly controlled and that the right dosage is prescribed. This is a process called "dosage optimization".
There are a variety of different medications that can be used to treat ADHD including methylphenidate (methylphenidate immediate release, and methylphenidate extended release), atomoxetine, modafinil and dexamphetamine. Clonidine and guanfacine may also be used to treat ADHD. There is no shortage of these drugs currently in the UK.
People suffering from ADHD often have a range of co-morbidities that are present alongside their ADHD diagnosis. These include anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. For this reason, it is suggested that all people with a comorbidity are provided with an integrated care plan, and that all relevant healthcare professionals are included in the treatment of the person.
The NHS is developing a new model of care for adults with neurodiversity that recognizes that not all people have the same needs, and that there could be links between physical health and mental issues. There will be a shift to more individualised services, with individuals being able to work with multidisciplinary teams that can help them and address their needs together.
Patients who are under primary care maintenance and have an ADHD prescription should contact their local specialist services for advice on dosage adjustments or decide that the patient should be referred to an intervention break. The GP should also avoid issuing additional 30-day supplies of these medications since this could increase the problem of supply.