ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, spreading awareness of the condition. just click the next web page is struggling to keep up with demand, with long queues for diagnosis and a taskforce set up to improve the quality of services.
Stimulant drugs are the primary treatment, increasing levels certain brain chemicals to reduce hyperactivity and inattention. They are not an effective treatment.
Stimulants
The good news is that the treatment for ADHD has come a long way since it first became available as a drug treatment in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better place than Europe or America and has a good selection of medications available. The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (often called Ritalin) available in both short- and extended-release tablets. It increases dopamine production in your brain. This decreases impulsivity and helps you to pay attention. It also reduces hyperactivity and increase motivation. There are a number of other medications that function as stimulants, but aren't methylphenidate. This includes guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine, which are sometimes prescribed for those with Tourette's disease. Guanfacine has less side effects than clonidine, and can help reduce both tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines is the next category of drugs commonly prescribed for ADHD. These are stronger than methylphenidate but can have more adverse effects, such as anxiety and insomnia. However, they are beneficial for certain individuals and are generally thought to be safer than the other stimulants available. 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 drug often used in the UK for adults with ADHD, which is Atomoxetine (sometimes known as Strattera). This medication does not alter dopamine, however it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is a different kind of messenger molecule that helps transmit information between the various brain regions. It aids in concentration and reducing impulses, but it can take several weeks to fully take effect.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD can provide you with more confidence in how to manage your symptoms. Talk to your GP and discuss your concerns. Request a referral. They are generally well-informed about neurodiverse diseases like ADHD and will be in a position to assist you.
It's normal to feel nervous before your first appointment with a psychiatrist. This is especially true if you are considering medication. You may have heard scary stories or watched documentaries, such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" which can leave you wondering if you will become a zombie on psychiatric medication. Our psychiatrists are highly experienced in ADHD and can help you feel safe and secure during the process. They will start you on your medication and will then schedule weekly or monthly appointments to monitor your improvement and dosage levels dependent on the service you select. You can visit your GP to continue your treatment.