ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, bringing awareness of the condition. The NHS is unable to cope with the demand, with long lines for diagnosis and a taskforce set up to improve services.
Stimulant drugs are the primary treatment, increasing levels of certain brain chemicals to reduce inattention and hyperactivity. They are not a cure.
Stimulants
The good news is that medication for ADHD has come a long way since it first became an option for treatment in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better place than Europe or America, with a decent range of available medications. The first-choice stimulant is methylphenidate (often referred to as Ritalin) available in both short- and extended-release tablets. adhd and medication works by increasing the activity of dopamine in your brain, which decreases the impulsivity of your brain and makes it easier to pay attention. It also helps reduce anxiety and increase motivation. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. These include guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are often prescribed for those suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine is less susceptible to side effects than clonidine, and could reduce both the tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines is the next group of drugs commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidates, but they could cause more adverse effects like insomnia and an increase in hunger. However, they are beneficial for certain individuals and are generally considered to be safer than the 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).
Atomoxetine, sometimes referred to Strattera, is a non-stimulant medication that is sometimes prescribed in the UK to people suffering from ADHD. This medication doesn't alter dopamine, however it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is another type of messenger molecule which helps pass information between parts of the brain. It can help with concentration and also reduce impulses. However it takes a few weeks before the full effects can be felt.
A diagnosis and evaluation of adult ADHD will give you more confidence to manage your symptoms. Talk to your GP and discuss your concerns. Ask for adhd medications for adults . The GP will be able to assist you if they're knowledgeable about neurodiverse disorders such as ADHD.
It's normal to feel anxious prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist. This is especially true if are thinking about taking medication. You might have watched documentaries such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or read horror stories that make you wonder if you'll turn into zombies when you're taking psychiatric medication. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in ADHD and can help you feel safe and comfortable throughout the process. Depending on the service that you select, they'll start you on medication and then schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to monitor your improvement. Then, you can return to your GP for ongoing care and treatment.