ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have shared their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses in public increasing awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to keep up with demand, with long wait times for diagnosis and a taskforce set up to improve the quality of services.
add adhd medications are the primary treatment, increasing levels of certain brain chemicals to reduce hyperactivity and inattention. But they're not a cure.
Stimulants
The good news is that the treatment for ADHD has developed a lot since it first became available as an alternative treatment in the 1980s. The UK offers a greater choice of drugs than Europe or America. The first choice stimulant is methylphenidate. It is also referred to as Ritalin. It is available in both extended-release and quick-release tablets. It increases the activity of dopamine in your brain, which reduces impulsivity and helps you pay attention. It can also increase motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are many other medicines which act like stimulants, but aren't methylphenidate. This includes Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine, which are often prescribed to those with Tourette's disease. Guanfacine is less side-effect prone than clonidine, and can reduce tics as well as impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next class of drugs commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate, but they can cause more side 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 known as Strattera is a non-stimulant drug that is often prescribed in the UK to adults with ADHD. It doesn't affect the levels of dopamine however it does trigger an increase in the amount of noradrenaline, another type of messenger chemical that helps to transfer information from one area of your brain to another. It aids in concentration and reducing impulses, but it may take a few weeks to fully take effect.
A diagnosis and evaluation of adult ADHD will help you gain confidence to manage your symptoms. Talk to your GP and explain your concerns. Request a referral. They are generally well-informed about neurodiverse diseases like ADHD and are in a position to assist you.
It's normal to feel nervous prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist, particularly if you're thinking about medications. You might have seen documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or heard horror stories that make you question whether you'll become a zombie when you are taking psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in ADHD and can make you feel safe and comfortable during the process. Based on the type of treatment you select, they'll begin you on medication and schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to track your progress. Then, you can return to your GP for continued care and treatment.