ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, bringing awareness of the condition. The NHS is battling with the demand. There are long queues to be diagnosed and a taskforce was set up to improve service.
The primary treatment is stimulant drugs, which boost levels of certain brain chemical to decrease excessive activity. They aren't a cure.
Stimulants
The good news is that ADHD medication has changed since its first introduction in the 1980s. The UK has a better range of medications than Europe or America. The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin. It comes in both quick-release and extended-release tablets. It works by increasing dopamine levels in your brain. This reduces impulsivity and allows 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. These include guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are often prescribed to those with Tourette's disease. how does medication for adhd work has fewer side effects than clonidine and may help reduce both tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next class of medications commonly prescribed for ADHD. These are stronger than methylphenidate however they may cause more adverse effects, such as insomnia and increased appetite. They may be beneficial for some people 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).
There is one non-stimulant medication that is commonly used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD known as Atomoxetine (sometimes known as Strattera). The medication does not alter dopamine, but it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is a different kind of messenger molecule that helps transfer information between different parts of the brain. It can help with 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 managing your symptoms. Talk with your GP and discuss your concerns. Request an appointment. The GP will be able to assist you if they're well-informed about neurodiverse disorders like ADHD.
It's normal to be nervous before your first appointment with a psychiatrist. This is especially true when you are considering medication. You might have watched documentaries such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or heard horror stories that make you question if you'll turn into zombies when you are taking psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have a wealth of experience of ADHD and are adept in making you feel at ease and secure throughout the process. They will begin your medication and will then schedule regular appointments every two weeks or monthly to monitor your growth and dosage levels, depending on the service you select. You will then be able to return to your GP to continue your care and treatment.