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 surpassed records. GPs prescribe medication to help children and adults who have the condition. These medications increase concentration and lower hyperactivity.
Practices are asked to identify patients impacted by the supply issues and add alert to their clinical records. Patient information leaflets and an easy read leaflet are provided to facilitate conversations with patients.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is mental health issue that affects individuals differently than others. It is a problem with learning, organizing and staying focused on tasks that require working memory. People with ADHD also have trouble paying attention to conversations or following instructions at school or at work. They are often guilty of making mistakes that can be costly in the end. They are eagerly waiting for their turn to speak and will shout out answers before the speaker has finished.
Symptoms begin in the early years of childhood. A person should display at least six signs that persist and interfere with their daily activities (such as at school, home or work). Adults with ADHD have the potential to be extremely successful however they may struggle to manage family relationships, manage household chores, and assume more complicated jobs.
It is not uncommon for this condition to remain undiagnosed throughout childhood, especially for women and girls. The symptoms are more subtle than for men and boys which is why they are less likely to be not reported to a doctor by parents or teachers. If the child is diagnosed with the condition, he or she may be put on medication.
The majority of medications used to treat ADHD increase the levels certain neurotransmitters in the brain. These chemicals aid in regulating attention and behavior. Methylphenidate is one of most frequently prescribed ADHD medications. It is believed to boost concentration by reducing impulsivity and hyperactivity.
People with ADHD are more likely to suffer from other disorders, like depression or anxiety. They are also more prone to addictions. Additionally, if they don't receive treatment, ADHD can lead to financial problems due to poor time management, missed appointments, late payments and impulse-driven spending.
The best way to proceed when you suspect you may have ADHD is to speak with your GP. They aren't able to officially diagnose you however they can refer you to a specialist. You can also request to be seen in a private clinic that offers assessments and ADHD prescriptions for medication. These are dispensed to your local pharmacy for you to pick up as any other prescription.
Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of ADHD begin early, in children aged between 3 and 6, and can persist throughout adulthood. Adults may experience difficulties with relationships, education, and work. It is not uncommon for the condition to go undiagnosed, and people may spend time being mistakenly identified as a dreamer, slacker or troublemaker. In adhd medication pregnancy or adulthood, it can be difficult to manage symptoms. This can lead to academic failure or financial difficulties, career failure, and difficulties maintaining friendships and relationships.
Some of the symptoms include difficulty in sitting or waiting for a response in a sluggish manner, not finishing tasks and being easily distracted. People with the ADHD type that is mostly inattentive may also be more prone to becoming bored and seeking out new experiences. They're unable to concentrate on tasks that do not seem appealing or rewarding. They are also more likely to misunderstand 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 their turn and have trouble playing or doing leisurely activities quietly. They are easily frustrated and are more likely to rush into activities without considering the consequences.
The brains of those with ADHD are affected by environmental and genetic factors. Some genes are associated with the disorder. It is also believed that low birth weight, smoking during pregnancy, and exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy increase the risk of having a child that is diagnosed with ADHD. There is evidence that certain diets can impact how a person with ADHD behaves, however cutting out foods should not be done without medical advice.
The main medications used to treat ADHD are methylphenidate, dexamphetamine and atomoxetine. Other medications are available and many people can switch between various medications according to the way they react and their tolerance to them. The Royal College of GPs warned that if current shortages were not addressed, they could worsen. Patients may not be able to receive treatment. GPs should consult their local ADHD service and discuss alternative options for treatment. Some GPs and ADHD services are providing information on alternative options to methylphenidate, including clonidine and guanfacine. It is safe to break from methylphenidate and atomoxetine, for instance, during the weekend, but it is important to consult your GP or ADHD service for guidance first.
Diagnosis
A psychiatrist will diagnose ADHD following a thorough examination. This includes a thorough description of symptoms by the patient and their family members, scales and questionnaires that are completed by the person as well as their family members and teachers, as well as an psychiatric history and details about the person's upbringing, education, and environment. In many countries a psychiatrist or other mental health professional has to determine the presence of ADHD in adults. Ask the psychiatrist about their expertise and training in adult ADHD if you decide to see an individual doctor to begin your treatment. Refusal to provide this information should be treated with suspicion, and you should seek an alternative professional.
A psychiatrist or another mental specialist should determine the severity of the symptoms if they were present since the early years of your life. To be considered to be diagnosed as an adult the symptoms you experience must have impacted your life for a long period of time, and caused problems in a variety of environments. A psychiatrist may examine your school records and ask you to write about how your symptoms have affected your life.
If you decide to begin taking medication, your doctor will discuss the best dosage and schedule with you. The most popular medication used to treat ADHD are stimulants. They affect the neurotransmitters levels in your brain. This improves your attention and decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. The typical time for these drugs is 45 to 60 minutes before they begin working and then are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream.
Some people are capable of absorbing certain types of ADHD medications. This includes methylphenidate (methylphenidate "immediate release" and methylphenidate extended release), amphetamines and atomoxetine as well as dexamphet. It is common to take a break from these medications over the weekends and during school holidays. However, you should only do this with the approval of your doctor.
You should only take ADHD medications under the supervision of a qualified medical professional and you should never share your prescription with anyone else or take it from anyone else. The National Health Service's GPs are required to assess each new patient prior to prescribing them medication for ADHD, and the waiting list for ADHD medications can be lengthy. The NHS England has created an ADHD taskforce to try and reduce the waiting times.
Treatment
Treatment options for ADHD include medication and behavioural therapy. Both of these treatments are extremely efficient for a lot of people. The effectiveness of medication is high and is well understood and safe, and can help reduce symptoms. However it is essential to remember that it is not a cure for ADHD. It only works when taken regularly.
The most popular treatment for ADHD is stimulant medication. This includes both children and adults. They function by increasing neurotransmitters that allow nerve cells communicate in the brain. They are available in two forms that are short-acting and long-acting. The psychiatric physician carefully adjusts the dosage of medication to ensure side effects are appropriately managed and that the right dosage is prescribed. This is known as "dosage optimization".
A variety of different drugs are available to treat ADHD including methylphenidate (methylphenidate immediate release, and methylphenidate 'extended release') and atomoxetine. There is also dexamphetamine and modafinil. The medications clonidine and guanfacine may also be used to treat ADHD. At present, there are no shortages of either of these drugs in the UK.
Co-morbidities are often present in people suffering from ADHD, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. For this reason, it is suggested that all patients with a comorbidity follow an integrated care plan, and that all relevant healthcare professionals are included in the care of the patient.
The NHS is working to create a new model for the care of adults with neurodiversity. This model recognizes that not all individuals have the same needs and there may be connections between physical and mental health issues. The NHS will shift towards a more individualised approach to care which will allow patients to connect with multidisciplinary teams who can support them and address the needs in a collaborative manner.
Patients who are receiving primary care maintenance and have a current ADHD prescription should consult their local specialist services for advice on dosage adjustment or accept that the patient be taken to a treatment break. The GPs are also advised to not to give additional 30 day supplies of these medications since this will exacerbate the supply issue.