ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have revealed their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis with the public increasing awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to cope with demand, with long wait times for diagnosis and a taskforce established to improve services.
The most effective treatment is stimulant drugs, which increase levels of certain brain chemical to reduce inattention and excessive activity. But they're not the only solution.
Stimulants
The good news is that ADHD medication has improved since its first availability in the 1980s. The UK offers a greater selection of drugs than Europe or America. The most popular stimulant available is methylphenidate (often called Ritalin), which comes in short-release and extended-release tablets. It works by enhancing the dopamine activity in your brain, which reduces impulsivity and helps you pay attention. It can also reduce anxiety and increase motivation. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. This includes guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are often prescribed to those with Tourette's disease. Guanfacine is less side-effect prone than clonidine and could reduce both impulses and tics.
Amphetamines are the next class of drugs that are typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate but can have more side consequences, including an increase in appetite and insomnia. However, they can be effective for some people 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 often prescribed in the UK to people suffering from ADHD. This medication doesn't affect dopamine but it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is another type of messenger molecule that assists in transmit information between the various brain regions. It aids in 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 to manage your symptoms. The first step is to talk to your GP, explain your concerns and request an appointment at the local specialist clinic. GPs are usually well informed about neurodiverse diseases, such as ADHD and are in a position to assist you.
check out the post right here to feel apprehensive before your first consultation with a psychiatrist, especially when you're considering taking the use of medication. You may have heard scare stories, or watched documentaries, such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills," that leave you wondering if you are going to turn into zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have huge experience of ADHD, and are skilled in making you feel at ease and safe during the procedure. They will get you started on your medication, and then schedule weekly or monthly appointments to monitor your progress and dosage levels, dependent on the service you select. You can then return to your GP for ongoing care and treatment.