ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have shared their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses publicly increasing awareness of the condition. adhd medications for adults is struggling to keep up with the demand, with long wait times for diagnosis and a taskforce set up to improve the quality of services.
Stimulant medications are the most common treatment, boosting levels of certain brain chemicals to reduce hyperactivity and inattention. But, they're not a cure.
Stimulants
The positive side is that treatment for ADHD has come a long way since it first became an alternative treatment in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better place than Europe or America, with a decent range of available medications. The most popular stimulant available is methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin) available in both short- and extended-release tablets. It works by increasing dopamine levels in your brain. This reduces impulsivity, and assists you in paying attention. It also increases motivation and decrease hyperactivity. There are many other medications that function as stimulants but aren't. Certain people suffering from Tourette's syndrome are prescribed Clonidine (brand name Tenex) or guanfacine. Guanfacine has fewer side effects than clonidine and could help to reduce tics as well as impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next class of drugs commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate but can have more side effects, such as insomnia and increased appetite. They may be beneficial for certain individuals 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, sometimes referred to Strattera is a non-stimulant drug that is often prescribed in the UK to people suffering from ADHD. This doesn't affect dopamine levels however it can cause an increase in noradrenaline levels, another type of messenger chemical that helps to pass information from one part of your brain to another. It can help with concentration and decrease impulses. However it takes several weeks before the full effects can be felt.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD can provide you with more confidence in managing your symptoms. Talk to your GP and explain your concerns. Request an appointment. The GP will be able to assist you if they're well-informed about neurodiverse disorders such as ADHD.
It's common to feel apprehensive prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist, especially if you're thinking about medications. You may have heard scare stories, or watched documentaries, such as Netflix's 'Take Your Pills', that make you wonder if will become zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists are experienced in ADHD and will make sure you feel secure and at ease during the process. They will get you started on your medication, and then schedule weekly or monthly appointments to monitor your improvement and dosage levels according to the treatment you choose. You can then return to your GP for ongoing care and treatment.