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 struggling with the demand. There are long queues to get diagnosed and a taskforce has been set up to improve service.
Stimulant medications are the most common treatment, increasing levels of certain brain chemicals to reduce hyperactivity and inattention. click this link now are not the only solution.
Stimulants
The positive side is that treatment for ADHD has progressed a lot since it first became available as an alternative treatment in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better place than Europe or America and has a good choice of drugs on offer. The first stimulant of choice is methylphenidate. It is also referred to as Ritalin. It comes in quick-release and extended-release tablets. It works by enhancing the amount of dopamine that is produced in your brain, which decreases the tendency to be impulsive and assists in paying attention. It can also boost motivation and decrease hyperactivity. There are many other medications that act as stimulants, but aren't methylphenidate. Some people with Tourette's Syndrome are prescribed Clonidine (brand name Tenex) or Guanfacine. Guanfacine is less susceptible to side effects than clonidine and could reduce both impulses and tics.
Amphetamines are the next class of medications commonly prescribed for ADHD. These are stronger than methylphenidate, but they can cause more adverse consequences, including anxiety and insomnia. However, they can be effective for some people and are generally considered 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).
There is a non-stimulant medicine sometimes used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD known as Atomoxetine (sometimes known as Strattera). It doesn't alter dopamine levels however it can cause an increase in noradrenaline, another type of messenger chemical that assists in transfer information from one area of your brain to another. It can help with concentration and reduce impulses. However it takes a few weeks for the full effect to be felt.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD can give you a lot more confidence in how to manage your symptoms. Talk with your GP and explain your concerns. Ask for a referral. GPs will be able help you if they're knowledgeable about neurodiverse conditions, like ADHD.
It's normal to be nervous prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist, particularly in the event that you're thinking about taking medications. 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 while taking psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists have huge experience in ADHD and are adept at making you feel comfortable and safe during the procedure. Based on the treatment you select, they'll begin your treatment and schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to monitor your progress. You can return to your GP to continue your treatment.