What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is, a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the ability to focus, control impulses, and regulate emotions³⁴. With increasing knowledge and awareness of mental health conditions, there’s been an increase in the number of individuals exploring if they have a potential diagnosis of ADHD.
How does medication help treat ADHD?
ADHD medication helps to manage the symptoms of ADHD by affecting the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and norepinephrine⁴. There are different types of ADHD medication, such as stimulants (e.g. methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine) and non-stimulants (e.g. atomoxetine, guanfacine). When initially trying ADHD medication, it’s not always straight forward; there can be issues with finding the correct dosage, suitable medication type, and managing potential side effects.
The Current Shortage:
Currently, there is a national shortage of some ADHD medications in the UK. More specifically, there are shortages primarily affecting methylphenidate, lisdexamfetamine, and guanfacine medications¹²⁵. These medications are used by both children and adults with ADHD, who rely on them to function in their daily lives⁴. The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) says the shortage is due to “increased global demand and manufacturing issues”¹². These shortages are negatively affecting countless individuals across the UK, with one interviewee detailing how: ‘I rely on my medication so much… without it I feel 14 again’.
Reasons for the Shortages:
Understanding the shortages of ADHD medication isn’t easy; there’s a multitude of complex issues all interacting. However, two of the main issues appear to be the Covid-19 pandemic and the Brexit Transition period. Covid and its aftermath had disrupted supply chains, created patient appointment backlogs, and has increased demand for medication due to the changing routines and increased stress of many people with ADHD. This one helped by the Brexit transition, which has significantly impact the import of medicines from the EU²⁴. Additionally, there’s a larger awareness of ADHD and treatment, especially among adults. Because of this, there’s more demand than ever for medication and ADHD treatment.
How the Shortage Affects Patients:
It’s hard to asses how much of a impact the medication shortages will have to individuals across the UK — everyone is different. However, patients may have to switch to alternative medications, which may not work as well or cause more side effects. They may also have to ration their medication, which is not advised by doctors⁴. Furthermore, prescribers may have to change the prescriptions, monitor the patients more closely, and deal with more queries and complaints¹²⁵. Additionally, Pharmacists may have to source the medication from different suppliers, inform the patients and the prescribers of the availability, and manage the
stock levels¹²⁵.
TMS as an alternative
The DHSC says it is working with the manufacturers, the suppliers, and the NHS to resolve the shortage as soon as possible¹². It also advises the patients to order their repeat prescriptions with at least 14 days supply left, and to contact their specialist team if they cannot get their usual medication¹⁵. As posted in a recent blog (insert reference when website is up), rTMS has been found to be helpful in treating/ managing the symptoms of ADHD. One of the benefits of TMS is that its medication free! Individuals suffering with medication shortages will be happy to know that there’s a safe, effective, alternate treatment for ADHD. Here at Smart TMS, we’ve recently began our ADHD protocol with the hope to help individuals manage their ADHD symptoms without the need for medication.
Ben, Smart TMS content writer
References:
(1) NHFT (n.d.). Important update: supply of ADHD medication | Our latest updates. [online] NHFT. Available at: https://www.nhft.nhs.uk/updates/latest-nhft-updates-shortages-of-some-adhd-medication-10669/.