ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnoses, raising awareness about the condition. The NHS is unable to cope with demand, with long wait times for diagnosis and a taskforce established to improve services.
Stimulant medications are the most common treatment, boosting levels of certain brain chemicals to decrease inattention and hyperactivity. They aren't the only solution.
Stimulants
The good news is that the treatment for ADHD has come a long way since it first became available as an option for treatment in the 1980s. The UK has a better selection of drugs than Europe or America. The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (often referred to as Ritalin), which comes in short-release and extended-release tablets. It increases dopamine production in your brain. This reduces impulsivity and helps you to pay attention. It can also increase motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. They include guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are often prescribed for people who have Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine is less susceptible to side effects than clonidine and may reduce both impulses and tics.
Amphetamines is the next category of drugs that are typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate, but they can cause more adverse reactions such as insomnia and increased hunger. However, they are effective for some people and are generally considered to be safer than other stimulants on offer. There are two amphetamines that you might be offered if methylphenidate doesn't work for you - dexamfetamine (brand name Lisdexamfetamine) and lisdexamfetamine/amphetamine hydrochloride (brand name Dexamfetamine).
There is one non-stimulant medication that is commonly used in the UK for adults with ADHD that is called Atomoxetine (sometimes called Strattera). This doesn't affect dopamine levels however it can cause an increase in noradrenaline levels, another type of messenger chemical that aids in the process of transfer information from one part of your brain to the other. It helps with concentration and decreases impulses, but it can take several weeks to take effect.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD will give you more confidence in managing your symptoms. Talk to click this link now and explain your concerns. Request a referral. The GPs are generally well-informed about neurodiverse conditions like ADHD, and will be able to help you.
It's common to feel apprehensive prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist, particularly in the event that you're thinking about taking medications. You may have heard scare stories or watched documentaries such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills," that can make you wonder if will become zombies while taking psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience of ADHD and are skilled in making you feel relaxed and secure throughout the procedure. They will start you on your medication and will then schedule regular appointments every two weeks or monthly to monitor your progress and dosage levels, depending on the service you select. You can visit your GP to continue your treatment.