ADHD Medicine For Kids
Some children require more than one ADHD medication to achieve the best results. Children should take their medication regularly.
Stimulant drugs help normal brain chemicals improve concentration, and regulate impulses. They are available in liquid form extended-release capsules, pill form. The doctor will begin you with a lower dose and then monitor your reaction to the drug.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a stimulant which helps to reduce ADHD symptoms. It can be used to treat the symptoms of narcolepsy. It works by increasing levels of dopamine in the brain, which increases concentration and improves mood. It is a controlled substance which means it must be prescribed by a doctor and can only be bought on prescription (it is not available on the street). Methylphenidate can be taken as capsules or tablets, as an oral solution, or as transdermal patches. The kind of methylphenidate prescribed depends on the doctor's diagnoses and other factors.
Methylphenidate may cause side effects, such as a headache or stomachache dry mouth, a fast heartbeat, shakiness and nervousness. It can cause facial tics in certain people who experience abrupt movements in the muscles of the face that aren't controlled. This can happen in less than one in 100 people taking methylphenidate, but it's crucial to inform your doctor right away when you or your child begins experiencing this issue. It can also increase the heart rate and blood pressure which your doctor will monitor carefully while you take it. Some people may also suffer from a skin reaction like a rash which can be itchy, swollen or blistered. It may affect blood flow to the fingers and feet (Raynaud’s disease). This is very serious and requires immediate treatment in hospital.
In general, methylphenidate may be considered safe by a majority of people when taken according to the directions. It can, however, cause a significant reduction in blood pressure in the event that the dosage is too high or it's taken too often. It may also cause people to feel dizzy or sleepy. Therefore, it is not recommended to drive or operate machines while taking it.
Methylphenidate is classified as a Schedule II drug, which means that it is a drug that could be abused. It could also trigger addiction in some people. It is best not to give your medication away. Keep your methylphenidate in a cabinet and only use the amount prescribed.
Amphetamines
Amphetamines are a class of drugs used to treat ADHD in children, adolescents and adults. They work by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain which improves concentration and helps to manage impulsive behavior. They are also able to treat certain symptoms of Tourette's syndrome.
These medicines are available as immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules as well as an oral solution. They are controlled medications in the UK (class C) which means that you'll need to be signed in by a doctor before you can collect these medications. The majority of people take them once a week, but certain people may take them twice.
Atomoxetine is an inhibitor of the noradrenaline reuptake pathway that is selective. It functions differently as other stimulant drugs however, it can be given to children and teenagers older than five if it's impossible to use methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, or for adults if the condition is diagnosed in this group. It's typically taken as a capsule every day or twice a day.
The use of stimulants is widespread. It is important to keep your child or teenager's medication safe out of sight and reach from friends, and not shared or sold to other people. Taking the medication in the wrong way, for example crushing and injecting it, could be very dangerous and even life-threatening. Some street drugs, including MDMA (ecstasy) and methamphetamine, are based on amphetamines.
Amphetamines are addictive and can have negative side effects that are difficult to manage particularly for older people. These side effects can include extreme fatigue and irritability. They could also include cravings, a desire to continue taking the drug, as well as a feeling of extreme fatigue. If you or your child experience any of these side effects speak to your doctor as soon as possible.
If you or your children are taking long-acting stimulant drugs, it is crucial to be aware that blood pressure may drop abruptly when the drug is removed. If this occurs, call triple zero (000) to request an ambulance right away. This could be extremely dangerous and can lead to a heart attack, stroke or even death. Talking to your doctor can assist you in managing the effects of stopping or reducing the dose. They can also provide support and advice.
Long-acting stimulants
Many people with ADHD discover that stimulants can aid in staying focused, complete tasks, and improve their relationships. Some people are not able to use this kind of medication. The adverse effects, like anxiety and heart palpitations, and the negative effects on appetite and sleep are often uncomfortable. These issues can stop people from taking the medications they need.
There are ways to help reduce the effects of these adverse effects. buy adhd medication uk may reduce the dose of your medication or switch you to a different medication. Self-help strategies can make a big difference.
Most people who are taking an ADHD medication must be monitored by an expert in medical care. It takes up to a month before the medication takes its full effect, so it is crucial to determine the appropriate dosage. The medical professional may ask about your or your child's routine and habits in order to determine what works for you, and will look at any other health issues that could be causing problems.
Concerta, Focalin, Ritalin SR and Vyvanse are some of the most well-known long-acting stimulants. These drugs are part of a group of drugs called methylphenidates and have been around for many years. Some are available as chewable tablets and liquids, while others can be put on patches for children who aren't keen on swallowing pills.
Adderall, Dexedrine and other amphetamine-based ADHD medications are also available. These have a more potent and longer-lasting effect than the methylphenidates, and can be taken in a variety of ways, including powder form for younger children who can't take pills. Some kids prefer to take these pills mixed with milk or juice.
Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are stimulants with a long-acting effect that are not part of the methylphenidate group or the amphetamine group. They are part of a class of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. They work by increasing the levels of a brain chemical called norepinephrine. They also help reduce the symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity.
Other medicines
Non-stimulant drugs can be prescribed when stimulants do not work or cause unwanted adverse effects. These drugs take longer to effect however they can enhance your ability focus and control impulses. They can also help to reduce depression and anxiety, which may sometimes occur along with ADHD. Doctors may also recommend therapy to help you manage your symptoms and improve your behavior or they may recommend that you avoid certain foods drinks, food items, or other activities that are known to cause issues in people with ADHD.
Stimulants adjust the levels of two chemical messengers in your brain called norepinephrine and dopamine. Norepinephrine enhances concentration, whereas dopamine enhances it. There are 12 medications that have been approved to treat ADHD. These include methylphenidate hydrochloride, lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, amphetamine sulfate, dexmethylphenidate hydrochloride/serdexmethylphenidate chloride, mixed amphetamine salts and atomoxetine (Strattera). Atomoxetine is the first medication to be approved as a non-stimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. It is a selective norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitor, which means that it increases the amount of norepinephrine in the brain. Other drugs in this class include guanfacine (Tenex, Intuniv), and clonidine (Catapres).
Antidepressants are also prescribed by doctors to boost dopamine levels in the brain. Bupropion is among the most commonly prescribed antidepressant used for adults with ADHD. It is often prescribed "off-label" to treat ADHD when it is associated with depression or substance use disorders, including cannabis and nicotine addiction.
Some experts believe that there is a link between mood and ADHD. Antidepressants could help in treating ADHD symptoms and also in improving mood. The NHS recommends talking to your GP before taking these medicines.
If your GP decides that medication is the right choice for you, he will prescribe a small dosage, which will gradually increase over a period of several weeks. Your GP will monitor you regularly to make sure the treatment is helping and also to check for any side effects that might develop. They might also recommend you to a specialist, such as counsellors or psychologists, for additional support.