ADHD Medicine For Kids
(Image: https://www.iampsychiatry.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Royal_College_of_Psychiatrists_logo.png)Some children need to take multiple ADHD medications to get the most effective results. Children should take their medicine on a regular basis.
Stimulant medications work to aid normal brain chemicals to improve concentration and control impulses. They can be in pill form, liquid, or extended-release capsules. The doctor will begin you with a low dosage and monitor your reaction to the medication.
Methylphenidate
Methylphenidate is a stimulant which aids in reducing ADHD symptoms. It can be used to treat the condition of narcolepsy. It does this by increasing the 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 physician and can only be bought by prescription (it is not available on the street). Methylphenidate comes in tablets, capsules, oral solution or transdermal patches. The type of methylphenidate prescribed is based on the diagnosis of the doctor as well as other elements.
Methylphenidate may cause adverse reactions such as a headache or stomachache dry mouth, a fast heartbeat, shakiness, and anxiety. Some people may experience facial tics, which are uncontrollable movements that occur in the muscles in the face. This occurs in less than 1 in 100 people taking methylphenidate. It's important to notify your doctor right away if your child or you are experiencing this problem. It could also trigger an increase in heart rate and blood pressure which your doctor will closely monitor when you're taking it. Certain people may also have a skin reaction like a rash that is itchy, swollen or blistered. It can affect blood flow to the fingers and feet (Raynaud’s disease). This is extremely serious and requires immediate treatment at a hospital.
In general, methylphenidate can be considered safe by the majority of people when taken according to the directions. However, it can cause a significant reduction in blood pressure when the dose is too high or used too frequently. It may also make you feel sleepy and dizzy It's not recommended to drive or operate machinery when you take it.
Methylphenidate has been classified as a Schedule II substance, meaning that it can be abused. It could also trigger dependence in some people. You should not give your medication away. Keep your methylphenidate safe in a cupboard, and only use the amount prescribed.
Amphetamines
Amphétamines are commonly used to treat ADHD in adolescents, children as well as adults. They help by increasing levels of certain brain chemicals, enhancing concentration and helping control the impulsive behavior. They can also help with some Tourette's symptoms.
These medicines are available as immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules as well as an oral solution. In the UK, they are controlled medications (class C) which means you must be signed in by your doctor to collect the pills. They are typically taken every day, although some people take them twice a day.
Atomoxetine differs from other stimulant medications. It is a prescription drug that can be given to teenagers and children who are over 5 if methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine aren't available. It works differently from other stimulant medications. It can be prescribed to adolescents and children who are older than 5 years old, if methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine aren't available or for adults with a diagnosed condition. It is typically taken in the form of a capsule, at least once or twice a day.
The use of stimulants is common. Make sure your child's or teen's medications out of away from the sight of friends. They are not to be sold or shared. When you use the medication in the wrong manner such as crushing it and injecting it, could be extremely dangerous and life-threatening. Some street drugs are made up of the structure of amphetamines which include methamphetamine as well as MDMA (ecstasy).
Amphetamines can be addictive and have negative side effects that are difficult to deal with particularly for people who are older. These side effects can include extreme fatigue and irritability. They can also cause cravings for the drug, a desire to continue using the drug, and a feeling of extreme fatigue. Consult your physician when you or your child experiences any of these side-effects.
If you or your child are taking long-acting stimulants, it's important to be aware of a sudden drop in blood pressure when the drug is removed. Contact triple zero (000), an ambulance, immediately if this occurs. This could be extremely dangerous and can lead to a heart attack, stroke or even death. Talking with your doctor can help you manage the effects of stopping or reducing the dose, and can offer support and guidance.
Long-acting stimulants
Stimulants can assist people with adhd medication brands uk remain focused, complete tasks and improve their relationships. However, not everyone responds to this kind of medication. The side effects, such as anxiety and heart palpitations, and the negative effects on sleep and appetite are typically unpleasant. These issues can stop people from taking the medication they need.
There are methods to ease these adverse effects. Your doctor can reduce the dose of your medicine or switch you to a different one, and self-help strategies can help you to make a difference.
Most people who prescribes medication For adhd take an ADHD medication must be monitored by an expert in medical care. This is because it can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a month for the medication for autism and adhd to have its full effect and because it's important to find the appropriate dosage for you. Medical professionals may inquire about your child's or your own routine and habits in order to help determine what works best for you and will examine any other health conditions that could be causing problems.
Some of the most common forms of long-acting stimulants include Concerta, Focalin and Ritalin SR, and Vyvanse. All of these drugs belong to a class of drugs referred to as methylphenidates. They have been in use for many years. Some are available in liquid form and chewable tablets, whereas others are available as skin patches for children who don't want take pills.
Adderall, Dexedrine and other amphetamine-based ADHD medications are also available. These have a more potent and last longer than methylphenidates, and they can be taken in a variety of ways, such powder form for younger children who aren't able to take pills. Some children prefer taking these medications in combination with juice or milk.
Strattera (atomoxetine) and Qelbree, (viloxazine), are stimulants with a long-acting effect that are not part of the methylphenidate or amphetamine group. They belong to a class of drugs called selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and function by increasing levels of a chemical in the brain known as norepinephrine. They can also reduce symptoms of impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Other medications
If the stimulants don't work or have undesirable adverse effects, doctors may prescribe non-stimulant medication. These medications take longer to work but they can help improve your ability to focus and control impulses. They can also help to reduce anxiety and depression, which may sometimes occur along with ADHD. Doctors might also suggest therapy to teach you skills to manage your symptoms and to improve behaviour, or they may suggest that you stay away from certain beverages, foods or activities that are believed to cause problems for people who suffer from ADHD.
Stimulants alter the levels of norepinephrine, and dopamine in your brain. Norepinephrine enhances concentration, whereas dopamine reinforces it. There are 12 drugs 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 medicine to be approved as a nonstimulant for adults suffering from ADHD. It is a selective inhibitor of norepinephrine uptake which means it increases the level of norepinephrine inside the brain. Other drugs in this group include guanfacine hydrochloride (Tenex and Intuniv) and clonidine hydrochloride (Catapres).
Antidepressants are also prescribed by doctors to boost the levels of dopamine in the brain. Bupropion is the most frequently prescribed antidepressant for adult ADHD. It is prescribed ”off-label” to treat ADHD when it is associated with depression or substance use disorders, including cannabis and nicotine addiction.
Some experts believe there is a connection between mood and ADHD. Antidepressants could be useful in treating managing adhd without medication adults symptoms, as well as improving mood. The NHS suggests talking to your GP before taking these medicines.
If your GP determines that medication is suitable for you, they'll prescribe a dose, and begin with small doses, which they will gradually increase over a couple of weeks. Your GP will check on you regularly to make sure the treatment is effective and to look for any adverse effects that could occur. They might also refer you to an expert such as a psychologist or a counsellor, for additional support.