ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have made public their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses in public to increase awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to cope with demand, and has long queues for diagnosis and a taskforce formed to improve the quality of services.
The most effective treatment is stimulant drugs that increase levels of a certain chemical in the brain to decrease excessive activity. They are not a cure.
Stimulants
The good news is that the treatment for ADHD has come a long way since it first became a drug treatment in the 1980s. The UK has a better selection of drugs than Europe or America. The most popular stimulant available is methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin) It is available in extended-release and short-release tablets. It works by increasing dopamine levels in your brain. This reduces impulsivity and allows you to pay attention. It also increases motivation and decrease hyperactivity. There are a number of other medications that act as stimulants, but aren't methylphenidate. This includes guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are often prescribed for people who have Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine is less prone to side effects than clonidine, and it may reduce both tics as well as impulsivity.
Amphetamines belong to the next category of drugs frequently prescribed for ADHD. adhd medication uk are more potent than methylphenidate, but they can cause more adverse effects, such as insomnia and increased appetite. They are effective for some people and are generally considered safer 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 often prescribed in the UK to adults suffering from ADHD. This medication doesn't alter dopamine levels, but it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is a different kind of messenger molecule which helps pass information between brain regions. 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 with your GP and explain your concerns. Request a referral. GPs will be able help you if they are well-informed about neurodiverse conditions, like ADHD.
It's normal to feel nervous before your first consultation with a psychiatrist, especially when you're considering taking medication. You might have heard horror stories, or watched documentaries like Netflix's 'Take Your Pills', that can make you wonder if will be turned into zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have huge experience with ADHD and are skilled in making you feel at ease and safe during the procedure. They will get you started on your medication and will then schedule regular appointments every two weeks or monthly to track your growth and dosage levels, depending on the service you select. You can visit your GP to continue your treatment.