10 Tips To Know About ADHD Medication For Adults UK
ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have revealed their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis with the public increasing awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to keep up with demand, with long queues for diagnosis and a taskforce formed to improve services.
The main treatment is stimulant drugs, which boost levels of a certain chemical in the brain to decrease inattention and excessive activity. But they're not a cure.
Stimulants
The positive side is that ADHD medication has changed since its first availability in the 1980s. The UK offers a greater selection of drugs than Europe or America. The first choice stimulant is methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin. It is available in both quick-release and extended-release tablets. It is a stimulant that increases dopamine activity in your brain. This reduces impulsivity, and helps you to pay attention. It can also reduce hyperactivity and increase motivation. There are many other medicines which act like stimulants but aren't methylphenidate. People with Tourette's Disorder are prescribed clonidine (brand name Tenex), or Guanfacine. Guanfacine is less susceptible to side effects than clonidine, and can reduce tics as well as impulsivity.
Amphetamines is the next category of medications that are commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidates, but they could cause more side effects like insomnia and an increase in hunger. However, dealing with adhd without medication are effective for some people and are generally considered to be safer than other stimulants available. 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 a non-stimulant drug often used in the UK for adults with ADHD, which is Atomoxetine (sometimes known as Strattera). It doesn't alter dopamine levels however it can cause an increase in the amount of noradrenaline, another messenger chemical that helps to pass information from one part of your brain to the other. It helps in focusing and reduces impulses, however it can take several weeks to fully take effect.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD can provide you with more confidence in managing your symptoms. The first step is to speak to your GP, explain your concerns and request a referral to the local specialist clinic. GPs are usually well informed about neurodiverse conditions like ADHD and are in a position to assist you.
It's normal to feel nervous prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist. This is especially true when you are considering taking medication. You might have seen documentaries such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or heard horror stories that make you wonder whether you'll turn into zombies when you take psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in ADHD and can make you feel safe and secure during the process. They will begin your medication, and then schedule regular appointments every two weeks or monthly to track your growth and dosage levels, dependent on the service you choose. You can return to your GP to continue treatment.