ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have shared their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis with the public, boosting awareness of the condition. The NHS is unable to cope with demand, with long lines for diagnosis and a taskforce formed to improve services.
The main treatment is stimulant drugs that increase levels of a certain chemical in the brain to reduce inattention and excessive activity. But adhd without medication 're not a cure.
Stimulants
The good news is that ADHD medication has changed since its first appearance in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better place than Europe or America with a wide choice of drugs on offer. The first choice stimulant is methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin. It is available in both quick-release and extended-release tablets. It works by enhancing the amount of dopamine that is produced in your brain, which reduces the impulsivity of your brain and makes it easier to pay attention. It also helps reduce hyperactivity and increase motivation. There are many other medicines which act like stimulants but aren't methylphenidate. This includes guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine, which are sometimes prescribed for people who have Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine is less side-effect prone than clonidine, and can reduce impulses and tics.
Amphetamines are the next class of medications that are commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidates, but they could cause more adverse reactions like insomnia and an increase in hunger. However, they are 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).
Atomoxetine, sometimes referred to Strattera, is a non-stimulant drug that is often prescribed in the UK to adults suffering from ADHD. It doesn't alter dopamine levels but does cause an increase in noradrenaline levels, another messenger chemical that aids in the process of pass information from one part of your brain to another. It can aid in concentration and decrease impulses. However it takes several weeks before the full effects can be felt.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD will give you more confidence to manage your symptoms. Talk to your GP and discuss your concerns. Request an appointment. The GPs are generally well-informed about neurodiverse conditions like ADHD and are able to help you.
It's normal to feel nervous prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist, especially when you're considering taking the use of medication. You may have seen documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or read horror stories that make you wonder if you'll turn into zombies when you're taking psychiatric medication. Our psychiatrists have vast experience in ADHD and are adept at making you feel comfortable and safe throughout the procedure. They will start you on your medication and will then schedule weekly or monthly appointments to track your improvement and dosage levels depending on the service you choose. You will then be able to return to your GP for ongoing care and treatment.