ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, spreading awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to meet the demand. There are long queues to be diagnosed, and a taskforce has been set up to improve service.
treating adhd without medication are the main treatment, boosting levels of certain brain chemicals in order to reduce inattention and hyperactivity. But they're not the only solution.
Stimulants
The good news is that ADHD medication has evolved since its first introduction in the 1980s. The UK is currently in a better position than Europe or America and has a good range of available medications. The first-choice stimulant is methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin), which comes in both short- and extended-release tablets. It increases dopamine activity in your brain. This reduces impulsivity, and helps you to pay attention. It also increases motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. These include guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine, which are often prescribed to those suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine is less prone to side effects than clonidine, and may reduce both the tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next class of drugs that are typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate, but they can cause more adverse effects like insomnia and an increase in hunger. They are effective for certain people and are generally considered safer than other stimulants. 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 a non-stimulant medicine often used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD that is called Atomoxetine (sometimes called Strattera). This doesn't affect dopamine levels but does cause an increase in the amount of noradrenaline, another type of messenger chemical that aids in the process of pass information from one part of your brain to another. It can aid in concentration and decrease impulses. However, it takes several weeks to fully experience the effects be felt.
A diagnosis and evaluation of adult ADHD will help you gain confidence in managing your symptoms. Talk to your GP and explain your concerns. Request an appointment. The GP will be able to assist you if they're well-informed about neurodiverse disorders, such as ADHD.
It's common to feel apprehensive prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist, particularly when you're considering taking medications. You may have heard scary stories, or watched documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills," that make you wonder if will become zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists are experienced in ADHD and can make you feel safe and comfortable during the process. Based on the type of treatment you choose, they will start you on medication and then schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to monitor your improvement. You will then be able to return to your GP to continue your care and treatment.