ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have shared their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses publicly to increase awareness of the condition. The NHS is battling with the demand. There are long queues to be diagnosed, and a taskforce was created to improve the quality of service.
Stimulant medications are the most common treatment, increasing levels of certain brain chemicals to decrease inattention and hyperactivity. But they're not an effective treatment.
Stimulants
The good news is that the treatment for ADHD has progressed a lot since it first became a drug treatment in the 1980s. The UK is currently in a better position than Europe or America and has a good range of available medications. The first-choice stimulant is methylphenidate (often referred to as Ritalin) It is available in short-release and extended-release tablets. It works by enhancing the dopamine activity in your brain, which reduces impulsivity and helps you pay attention. It can also reduce the amount of hyperactivity and boost motivation. There are adhd medications for adults that act as stimulants but aren't. This includes Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine, which are often prescribed to those suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine has fewer side effects than clonidine and may help reduce both tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next class of drugs that are typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate, but they can cause more side consequences, including an increase in appetite and insomnia. They may be beneficial for certain individuals and are generally regarded as less harmful 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).
Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera, is a non-stimulant medication that is sometimes prescribed in the UK to adults suffering from ADHD. This medication doesn't alter dopamine, but it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is an additional type of messenger molecule that helps transmit information between the various brain regions. It can help improve concentration and reduce impulses. However it takes several weeks for the full effect to be felt.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD can provide you with more confidence in the way you manage your symptoms. The first step is to talk to your GP and discuss your concerns and ask for a referral to the nearest specialist clinic. GPs will be able help you if they're well-informed about neurodiverse disorders like ADHD.
It's normal to feel anxious prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist. This is especially true if are considering taking medication. You might have seen documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or read horror stories that make you wonder whether you'll turn into zombies when you take psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists have vast experience in ADHD and are skilled at making you feel comfortable and secure throughout the process. They will begin your medication, and then schedule regular appointments every two weeks or monthly 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.