ADHD Medication For Adults in the UK<br /><br />In the UK there is a variety of medications that are approved for treating ADHD. This includes the stimulant methylphenidate, as well as the amphetamine-based drug called lisdexamfetamine. The exact dose will need to be monitored closely during the early stages of treatment (titration) and then stable prescriptions can be handled by your GP as part of a'shared care' arrangement.<br /><br />What is a Licensed Medication (L.M.)?<br /><br /><a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.com/adult-adhd-medication">types of adhd medication Iampsychiatry</a> licensed medicine has gone through all of the necessary tests and clinical trials and the MHRA, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHRA), has granted the green light for its use in Great Britain. The packaging of the medicine or the leaflet that comes along with it will clearly indicate whether it's suitable for a specific condition. All licensed medicines go through strict supervision and testing, even after they're on the market. This allows problems to be identified quickly and the risk to be minimized.<br /><br />Some people suffering from ADHD might be prescribed medications that are not licensed however they aren't often used on children and teenagers. The unlicensed medication may be used for other conditions that have been proven to work well with it (known as off-label prescribing), or it might be a specific formulation that isn't yet on the market, for instance an oral liquid instead of tablets or a product free from certain additives. It may be an experimental medication that is being tested in the UK.<br /><br />The term "experimental drugs" is used to refer to Medicines that have an IMP or Marketing Authorisation(MIA) (IMP) or Investigational Medicinal Products. These drugs aren't yet licensed and can only be purchased with an order from a doctor. The MHRA will have conducted a formal evaluation as part of the Early Access to Medicines Scheme.<br /><br />Atomoxetine is a medication that's not stimulant that's often prescribed in the UK and Europe for ADHD. This is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, and so works differently to other ADHD medications. It increases the amount of noradrenaline in the brain, which is a sort of chemical that passes messages between nerve cells which aids concentration and assists in controlling impulses. It is taken as a capsule every day, either once or twice.<br /><br />A psychiatrist is the only mental health professional who can identify ADHD in adults, and then prescribe medication to treat it. It's important to note that ADHD isn't just an illness which can be treated with medications alone. Therapy is often incorporated into treatment plans for those suffering from the condition. Psychoeducation can help children, teens and adults recognize their diagnosis, as well as behavioral therapy that teaches strategies to manage symptoms.<br /><br />What is an unlicensed drug?<br /><br />The term "unlicensed medication" refers to any drug that has not been granted a license by the MHRA. It could be that the drug was not developed by an UK company, or because it has been prescribed in violation of the restrictions of its licence (ie off-label). The GMC's guidelines say that 'unlicensed medicine is usually utilized when a suitable licensed product is not available or when a clinically-effective treatment cannot be found using the medication that the doctor is most comfortable with'.<br /><br />A medical license will specify the health conditions it treats as well as the age of patients it may be administered to. The licence will also outline how and by whom the medicine is to be administered. The MHRA will only issue permission if the drug is thought to be safe and effective for the use, which is built on research in medical science and clinical trials. The manufacturers of the drugs are not allowed to promote or promote any use that is not covered by the licence.<br /><br />It is not illegal in the UK for medical professionals to prescribe an unlicensed medication provided they explain the dangers and benefits of doing so to the patient. They must also keep a record of the use of unlicensed medications and provide the patient enough information to make an informed decision.<br /><br />The majority of unlicensed medications are given in hospitals, as there is more experience of using them than in GP surgeries. The hospital will have procedures to ensure the safety and efficacy of the medication. This includes keeping thorough records of patients, and recording any adverse effects. They are required to adhere to MHRA guidelines on the safe supply of unlicensed medicines.<br /><br />Specials are prescribed by doctors who must be clear with their patients, parents or caregivers about the medication as well as its purpose and possible adverse consequences. They must be able to answer any questions asked, and should always provide written information about any medication they are prescribing, and the reason for prescribing it.<br /><br />What is a Shared-Care Agreement?<br /><br />In recent years, as the number of people suspecting of being suffering from ADHD increased as did the demand for a referral to the NHS for an assessment and medication to treat the condition. The waiting lists for NHS assessments can be very long and a lot of patients choose to pay privately for ADHD assessments at private clinics. The hope is that once a diagnosis has been confirmed through this process, the GP will enter into an agreement for shared care (SCA).<br /><br />A SCA is a contract between your psychiatrist and your GP, whereby the responsibility for prescribing medication, monitoring, and basic health checks is transferred to your GP. This is a recognized and accepted method for the transfer of the responsibility of managing a patient with ADHD from an institution or a specialist service setting to general practice, provided that it is in line with NHS England guidelines.<br /><br />Before responsibility is transferred the specialist and GP should be in agreement on these SCA guidelines. This should be clearly stated in any referral form. It must also be stated that the GP remains responsible for continuous monitoring and titration of the medication.<br /><br /><br /><br />Unfortunately, a large number of GPs are not able to accept SCAs. This isn't due to the lack of motivation, but because the work involved with SCAs is often outside of their core funding and it is usually an additional project on top of their busy schedule.<br /><br />The doctor should be provided with adequate information regarding the rationale for SCA and what the expectations of both parties, including the role of the patient and their carer. It should also be clear that a decision on SCA must be made by the prescriber who initiated treatment and the GP should be told if they are not willing to participate in the SCA.<br /><br />If a doctor does not wish to take on the responsibility of SCA they may choose not to do so, however this can lead to patients being reverted back to the private ADHD assessment clinic and psychiatrist who carried out their initial diagnosis. This could lead to prescriptions for medications being given privately, rather than through NHS. This can be more expensive.<br /><br />What is a titration time?<br /><br />The tration phase is a crucial step to find the right medication for ADHD. It is a process of increasing your dosage gradually until you reach a level that maximizes the benefits and minimizes the risk of side effects. It takes time however, your healthcare specialist should work closely with you to ensure that the titration process goes as smooth as it can be.<br /><br />Some patients may experience an increase in their symptoms during the titration phase. People who are hyperactive, like might become restless and irritable. It is essential to let loved ones know of any changes in behavior and offer support. It is also essential to eat a balanced diet and to establish a consistent sleep routine to minimize the negative effects of ADHD medications.<br /><br />It is important to remember that medication isn't the only option for ADHD treatment. However, it is recommended as a first-line management method for adults. Talk therapy can be beneficial in addressing anxiety and depression, which can trigger certain symptoms of ADHD. It is essential to remember that medication only addresses symptoms and doesn't alter the negative coping mechanisms. Some patients choose not to take medication at all and prefer to focus on self-help therapies like exercise, nutrition as well as stress reduction and sleep strategies.<br /><br />It is important to understand the effects of side effects and how they affect your body. Certain medications can reduce appetite, cause headaches, or cause you to feel sleepy. Make sure to always follow the directions for taking your medication and consult your doctor if there are any adverse reactions.<br /><br />Currently, many of the medications used for treating adult ADHD are out of stock. This has led to delays in diagnosis and a backlog in appointments with psychiatrists. NHS England has created a taskforce to study the issue and offer suggestions regarding how to decrease the time it takes to get medication.<br /><br />Despite the dearth of certain well-known medications, it's still possible to receive ADHD treatment in the NHS, and it's a good idea to ask your local GP about options for you. You might be able to get the same medications privately or they might suggest alternative medications that have similar results.<br /><br />