How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
The availability of ADHD medication is variable and it may be difficult to obtain prescriptions due to shortages. This is true for all pharmacies as well as doctors.
You should access your evaluation via the 'Right to Choose route if you wish to avoid lengthy wait times. Before prescribing ADHD medication, your local mental health provider might require a recent ADHD specialist review.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the medications most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK. They are effective by increasing the quantity of neurotransmitters (chemicals that enable the brain to communicate) in the brain. They are highly effective and can help with many of the issues associated with living with ADHD. However, as with all medications they can have adverse effects, so a clear communication is essential with your GP regarding how you're experiencing and any changes to treatment that may be needed.
Stimulant medications are best utilized by adults, however it is also utilized by children and adolescents. There are many different stimulant medications available. The most popular include methylphenidate (Ritalin) amphetamine salts, and dexamfetamine (Dexamethasone). There is also the atomoxetine (Prozac) but this is only approved for use in children aged 8 and up.
non prescription adhd medication uk are generally started with low doses and gradually increased over several weeks. This is called titration and allows for adjustments to be made as you begin to understand the effects of the medication on your child or adult. The psychiatrist will take into consideration the adverse effects observed and work with you to find the dosage that works for you, while minimizing side adverse effects.
It can take time to find the right dosage of stimulant ADHD drugs but it is crucial to remain on the right track as long term usage is required. Regular appointments with your GP can help you find the ideal balance.
Currently, only psychiatrists are able to titrate ADHD medications. However, this could change. In the meantime, general practitioners are advised not to prescribe stimulant medication to new patients until the shortage is resolved.
You can join the fight for a more accurate diagnosis and better access to medications by asking your GP to refer you to an assessment of your medical condition. You can also print and download the letter of support from ADHD UK to give to your GP.
The majority of pharmacies sell stimulants, that are frequently prescribed psychiatric drugs. They are prescribed as tablets and can be taken as an immediate-release drug or an extended-release one. Extended-release drugs are given every day in the morning and can last up to eight hours. Many people will take a second dose of their extended-release medication along with an immediate-release medication in the afternoon, between mid and late afternoon, to ensure they have a consistent supply of their medication throughout the day.
It is difficult to accept the notion that ADHD medication is over-medicalised, and that children are "pumped up" to control their behavior and improve their grades in school. There are believed to be 2.6 million children and adults suffering from the condition in the UK but only around 200 people are taking medication. This number is likely increase as the stigma surrounding ADHD is gradually fading, and more people are being referred to an ADHD assessment.
