ADHD Medication Options For Adults UK
There are two kinds of ADHD treatment which are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants boost and balance levels of chemicals in the brain which regulate the impulsivity and attention.
Treatments for adults suffering from ADHD are controlled substances and must be prescribed by an expert ADHD clinician, rather than your GP. They are typically prescribed as a six-week trial before changing or increasing the dosage.
Stimulants
The main treatment is medication for adults with ADHD and the selection of drugs is far greater than when it was first recognised as a condition. In the UK and other countries in Europe psychiatrists are able to treat ADHD by offering a wide range of treatments.
As a first line of treatment, stimulants are prescribed. These drugs boost the activity of parts of the brain that control the flow of information, motivation, and mood. They also reduce impulsivity, and boost concentration. mouse click the following webpage can be taken in short or long-acting tablets, referred to as modified or immediate release, and are generally effective in managing symptoms of ADHD very quickly.
The two most frequently used stimulants are the methylphenidate (better known as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts (Adderall). They are available in immediate or extended release tablets, and the type of tablet you take will depend on your preferences and the degree of your symptoms. These are controlled substances, meaning that you are able to get them on prescription from a psychiatrist. Also, they will need to be monitored closely.
Other medications may also be prescribed to treat adults with ADHD. These include guanfacine (marketed under the names Vyvanse or Concerta) and Lisdexamfetamine. These medications work on different areas of the brain to increase focus and attention. They can also reduce blood pressure. In general, these are less likely to cause adverse effects than methylphenidate or amphetamine salts and may be more suitable for people who experience them.
Other options for treatment include antidepressants and a selection of anti-anxiety medications, but these are usually suggested as a last resort option for those who are unable to relieve the symptoms using stimulants or other medication. Psychologists also recommend therapy in combination with medication, since it is impossible to change negative coping mechanisms that have been in place for a long time with medications.
It is crucial to keep in mind that taking medication for ADHD is a individual decision and no doctor should ever try to force patients to take it. Medication can have serious side effects, and a specialist psychiatrist will titrate the doses on an individual basis to ensure that they are safe for each person. A proper balance between therapy and medication can enhance your quality of life. However, it's essential to consult with a psychiatrist prior to taking any medication.
ADHD symptoms must be disruptive and severe in all aspects of daily life in order to qualify for a clinical referral for diagnosis and assessment. This includes school, work and social life. Talk with your GP in case you or your child believes they may be suffering from ADHD. Request a referral.
TB declares consulting or advisory roles with Actelion Hexal Pharma Lilly, Medice Novartis Otsuka PCM Scientific, Hogrefe Kohlhammer, Medice Oxford Outcomes; speaker's fees or conference support from Medice and royalties as well as grants from Shire. DC declares personal fees and grants from Shire, Viforpharma and Oxford University Press as well as research collaborations with Medice Otsuka and Novartis.