ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnoses, raising awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling with the demand. There are long queues to be diagnosed, and a taskforce was established to improve the service.
Stimulant medications are the most common treatment, increasing levels certain brain chemicals to decrease hyperactivity and inattention. They are not the only solution.
Stimulants
The good news is that the treatment for ADHD has developed a lot since it first became 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 available is methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin), which comes in both short- and extended-release tablets. It increases the dopamine activity in your brain, which reduces impulsivity and helps you pay attention. It also helps reduce the amount of hyperactivity and boost motivation. There are a number of other medications that function as stimulants but aren't. This includes Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are often prescribed for those suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine is less susceptible to side effects than clonidine, and could reduce both the tics and impulsivity.
concerta adhd medication is the next group of drugs commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate but can have more adverse effects, including anxiety and insomnia. However, they are beneficial for certain individuals and are generally thought to be more secure 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).
There is one non-stimulant medication that is commonly used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD that is called Atomoxetine (sometimes known as Strattera). It doesn't affect the levels of dopamine however it does trigger an increase in noradrenaline levels, another type of messenger chemical that helps to transfer information from one area of your brain to another. It helps with concentration and decreases impulses, but it can take a while to fully take effect.
Having an assessment and diagnosis of adult ADHD can provide you with more confidence in the way you manage your symptoms. The first step is to speak to your GP and discuss your concerns and ask for an appointment with the nearest specialist clinic. The GPs are generally well-informed about neurodiverse diseases, such as ADHD, and will be competent to assist you.
It's common to feel apprehensive before your first consultation with a psychiatrist, particularly when you're considering taking medication. You might have heard horror stories, or watched documentaries, such as Netflix's 'Take Your Pills', that can make you wonder if you are going to turn into zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have huge experience in ADHD and are adept at making you feel comfortable and safe throughout the process. Based on the type of treatment you select, they'll start you on medication and will then schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to monitor your improvement. You can visit your GP to continue treatment.