ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnoses, raising awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to cope with demand, with long lines for diagnosis and a taskforce set up to improve the quality of services.
Stimulant drugs are the main treatment, increasing levels certain brain chemicals to decrease hyperactivity and inattention. However, they're not an effective treatment.
Stimulants
concerta adhd medication is that medication for ADHD has progressed a lot since it first became available as a drug treatment in the 1980s. The UK offers a greater choice of drugs than Europe or America. The most popular stimulant available is methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin) available in both short- and extended-release tablets. It works by increasing the dopamine activity 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. They include Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are often prescribed for people who have Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine has less side effects than clonidine and could aid in reducing tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines belong to the next category of medications typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate but can have more adverse effects, including an increase in appetite and insomnia. However, they are effective for some people and are generally thought 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).
Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera, is a non-stimulant medicine that is often prescribed in the UK to adults suffering from ADHD. The medication does not alter dopamine, however it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is an additional type of messenger molecule that assists in transmit information between the various parts of the brain. It helps with concentration and decreases impulses, but it can take several weeks to take effect.
Having an assessment and diagnosis of adult ADHD can give you a lot more confidence in the way you manage your symptoms. Talk to your GP and explain your concerns. Request an appointment. GPs are usually well informed about neurodiverse disorders, such as ADHD, and will be competent to assist you.
It's normal to feel nervous before your first appointment with a psychiatrist. This is especially true if you are considering taking medication. You may have heard scare stories, or watched documentaries, such as Netflix's 'Take Your Pills', which can leave you wondering if you will become zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience of ADHD and are adept in making you feel at ease and safe throughout the process. They will begin your medication and will then schedule fortnightly or monthly appointments to track your improvement and dosage levels according to the treatment you select. You can then return to your GP to continue your care and treatment.