ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have revealed their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis with the public to increase awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to meet the demand. There are long queues to be diagnosed and a taskforce was set up to improve service.
The most effective treatment is stimulant drugs, which increase levels of a certain chemical in the brain to decrease excessive activity. However, they're not a cure.
Stimulants
The good news is that medication for ADHD has progressed a lot since it first became available as an alternative treatment in the 1980s. The UK is currently in a better position than Europe or America, with a decent range of available medications. The first-choice stimulant is methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin), which comes in extended-release and short-release tablets. It works by increasing dopamine activity in your brain. This decreases impulsivity and allows you to pay attention. It also helps reduce the amount of hyperactivity and boost motivation. There are a number of other medications that act as stimulants, but aren't methylphenidate. Certain people suffering from Tourette's syndrome are prescribed clonidine (brand name Tenex), or guanfacine. Guanfacine is less side-effect prone than clonidine, and it could reduce both the tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next group of medications frequently prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate, but they can cause more adverse effects, such as insomnia and increased appetite. They are effective for certain individuals 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 that is commonly used in the UK for adults with ADHD, which is Atomoxetine (sometimes called Strattera). It doesn't alter dopamine levels however it does trigger an increase in noradrenaline, another messenger chemical that assists in transfer information from one area of your brain to another. It can help with concentration and decrease impulses. However it takes a few weeks before the full effects can be felt.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD will give you more confidence in managing your symptoms. Talk to your GP and explain your concerns. Ask for a referral. adhd and medication Iampsychiatry are generally well-informed about neurodiverse diseases, such as ADHD and will be in a position to assist you.
It's common to feel apprehensive prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist, particularly when you're considering taking medications. You might have heard horror stories or watched documentaries such as Netflix's 'Take Your Pills', which can make you wonder if will become zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists are highly experienced in ADHD and can make you feel safe and secure during the process. Based on the treatment you select, they'll start you on medication and will then schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to check on your progress. Then, you can return to your GP for ongoing care and treatment.