ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have shared their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses publicly increasing awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to meet the demand. There are long queues to get diagnosed and a taskforce has been established to improve the service.
Stimulant medications are the most common treatment, increasing levels certain brain chemicals in order to reduce inattention and hyperactivity. They aren't the only solution.
Stimulants
The good news is that medication for ADHD has progressed a lot since it first became a drug treatment in the 1980s. The UK has a much better selection of drugs than Europe or America. The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin), which comes in both short- and extended-release tablets. It increases the dopamine activity in your brain, which reduces impulsivity and helps you pay attention. It can also boost motivation and decrease hyperactivity. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. Some people with Tourette's Syndrome are prescribed clonidine (brand name Tenex) or Guanfacine. Guanfacine has fewer side effects than clonidine and may help reduce both tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next group of medications commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate, but they can cause more side effects, including an increase in appetite and insomnia. However, they can be 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).
concerta adhd medication , also referred to as Strattera is a non-stimulant drug that is often prescribed in the UK to adults suffering from ADHD. It doesn't affect the levels of dopamine however it does trigger an increase in noradrenaline, another type of messenger chemical that assists in pass information from one part of your brain to the other. It can aid in concentration and reduce impulses. However it takes a few weeks to fully experience the effects be felt.
A diagnosis and evaluation of adult ADHD will help you gain confidence to manage your symptoms. The first step is to speak to your GP and explain your concerns and ask for an appointment with the local specialist clinic. They are generally well-informed about neurodiverse diseases like ADHD and are in a position to assist you.
It's normal to feel nervous prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist, especially if you're thinking about medications. You may have heard scare stories or watched documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" which can make you wonder if you are going to turn into a zombie on psychiatric medication. Our psychiatrists are experienced in ADHD and can help you feel secure and at ease throughout the process. Depending on the service that you select, they will begin your treatment and will then schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to track your progress. You can then return to your GP for ongoing care and treatment.