ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, bringing awareness about the condition. The NHS is battling with the demand. There are long queues to be diagnosed and does adhd medication work was established to improve the service.
The primary treatment is stimulant drugs, which boost levels of a certain chemical in the brain to decrease excessive activity. But they're not an effective treatment.
Stimulants
The positive side is that treatment for ADHD has developed a lot since it first became an alternative treatment in the 1980s. The UK has a much better range of medications than Europe or America. The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (often referred to as Ritalin) available in short-release and extended-release tablets. It increases the amount of dopamine that is produced in your brain, which decreases impulsivity and helps you pay attention. It can also increase motivation and decrease hyperactivity. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. They include Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine, which are often prescribed for those suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine has less side effects than clonidine and could help to reduce tics as well as impulsivity.
Amphetamines is the next group of medications that are commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate however they may cause more adverse consequences, including insomnia and increased appetite. They are effective for certain people and are generally regarded as 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 one non-stimulant medication sometimes used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD, which is Atomoxetine (sometimes known as Strattera). This medication doesn't alter dopamine levels, however it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is an additional type of messenger molecule which helps pass information between brain regions. It helps with concentration and reduces impulses, however it can take several weeks to take effect.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD can provide you with more confidence in the way you manage your symptoms. Talk with your GP and share your concerns. Ask for a referral. They are generally well-informed about neurodiverse disorders like ADHD, and will be in a position to assist you.
It's common to feel apprehensive prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist, particularly in the event that you're thinking about taking medications. You might have watched documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or read horror stories that make you wonder if you'll turn into a zombie when you take psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists have vast experience in ADHD, and are skilled at making you feel comfortable and secure throughout the procedure. Based on the type of treatment you select, they will begin your treatment and schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to monitor your progress. You can visit your GP to continue treatment.