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ADHD medications are prescribed to adults by a psychiatrist if the diagnosis is made. The NHS is currently experiencing a shortage of central nervous system stimulants, which includes ADHD medications.
The shortage is caused by manufacturing problems and an increased global demand. It is expected to be resolved between October and December 2023.
1. Adderall
Adderall is a brand name for a mixture of amphétamine salts. It's a powerful stimulant which, when taken correctly, helps people with ADHD concentrate and stay on track, as well as manage their impulses. It is prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and also narcolepsy.
It was the first medication to be approved by the FDA to treat both of these conditions. It is a central nerve stimulant that increases norepinephrine levels and other neurotransmitters within the brain. These chemicals boost concentration and alertness for people suffering from narcolepsy.
Doctors prescribe Adderall to patients suffering from ADHD in tablets or in liquid form. Adderall is a medication that can be taken regularly or when needed to treat symptoms. Adderall users may suffer from side effects like headaches, dry mouth, and stomach upset. Some people may develop tolerance to the medication and may have to take more than their doctor recommends to achieve the same results.
Adderall is not recommended for people with certain heart conditions. They can raise the heart rate and cause anxiety, which is dangerous for people who have heart problems or an history of heart disease. People suffering from glaucoma, liver or kidney problems should consult their doctor before taking Adderall. Adderall may cause birth defects for babies born to mothers who were taking it during pregnancy. Studies on animals have revealed that the drug can cause birth defects in a pregnant fetus. However, there is not enough information to know the impact it could have on the fetus.
Stimulants can slow down growth in children, but the effect is minimal and most kids get caught up by adulthood. They can also cause psychosis, which is a mix between hallucinations, delusions and other symptoms.
Adderall is classified as a Schedule II substance, which means it has a significant risk of abuse. It is abused by those who don't have ADHD and who take it to feel more energetic or lose weight. People who are using it illegally tend to mix it with other drugs, such as cocaine, to enhance the effects. It is also a factor during drug tests for sports or work.
3. Concerta
Like Adderall and Vyvanse Concerta is an extended-release drug that is taken every day in the morning. It is believed to work by increasing levels of two neurotransmitters found in the brain, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. This can help improve concentration as well as other symptoms of ADHD. It is essential to follow the exact dosage prescribed by your doctor. Do not increase the dosage without consulting your doctor. This could cause side consequences. It is also recommended to store Concerta in a secure location away from reach of children and at the temperature of room.
Insomnia is another frequent side effect that can make it difficult to fall asleep. It is suggested that you try to take it at the same time each day. A reminder of your pills or a medication timer may help to keep you on the right track. This drug falls into pregnancy category C. It should only be used when the benefits outweigh any risk for the baby's development. It is not recommended to use methylphenidate for prolonged periods of time as it may lead to dependency.
It is also important to remember that this medication can cause tics, which are repetitive actions or sounds that are not intent to. This can be characterized by head bobbing, eye blinking and humming. This is something that the majority of people will not have however if it does happen to you, talk to your doctor about it.
4. Focalin
Focalin is a prescription medication that can be used to treat ADHD in both adults and children. It is a dexmethylphenidate-based medication that stimulates the central nervous system and reduces the impulsivity of ADHD patients.
Focalin, like other stimulant drugs, can boost the levels of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play a role in communication between nerve cells and improve vigilance, attention and control of impulses. They are therefore effective ADHD medications. Focalin dosage varies based on the age of the patient and may be long-acting or short-acting. The immediate-release tablets are short-acting and the extended-release tablets have a longer-acting.
Long-term use of Focalin could cause serious adverse effects. The drug has been associated with depression, especially for those who aren't predisposed. This is because the medicine causes neurotransmitters to stay elevated for a long time. Joanna Moncrieff is a professor of psychiatry and psychiatrist at University College London. She has spent many hours fighting what she believes is an overprescription of stimulant medication to treat mental disorders.
Focalin can cause psychomotor retardation or agitation for certain people. There is also the sensation of being energised and mildly euphoric. Focalin can cause sleepiness and the feeling of drowsiness. Patients can also develop tolerance to the drug, which means they need more and more dosages to get the same effect. adhd medications can lead to addiction and dependence.
To reduce the risk of Focalin misuse doctors should review regularly the risks of their patients and be on the lookout for indications of abuse, misuse, or addiction. They should advise patients to keep the drug in a safe place and not give it to anyone else. They should also inform patients on the dangers of accidental overdoses and provide them with instructions on how to dispose of unused medication.
Focalin unlike other ADHD medications, does not immediately take effect. The effects of the drug start within two to three hours after taking it, and last for up to four hours. This is the reason it's frequently prescribed in conjunction with other non-medical therapies, such as cognitive behavior therapy.