ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like 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 cope with the demand, with long wait times for diagnosis and a taskforce set up to improve services.
Stimulant drugs are the primary treatment, boosting levels of certain brain chemicals to decrease inattention and hyperactivity. They aren't the only solution.
Stimulants
The good news is that medication for ADHD has progressed a lot since it first became available as a drug treatment in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better place than Europe or America, with a decent selection of medications available. The first stimulant of choice is methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin. It is available in both extended-release and quick-release tablets. It works by increasing the amount of dopamine that is produced in your brain, which reduces the tendency to be impulsive and assists in paying attention. It can also increase motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are many other medicines which act like stimulants but aren't. People with Tourette's Disorder are prescribed Clonidine (brand name Tenex), or guanfacine. Guanfacine is less susceptible to side effects than clonidine and may reduce both tics as well as impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next class of medications that are commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate, but they can cause more adverse effects like insomnia and an increase in hunger. 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).
There is a non-stimulant drug often used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD that is called Atomoxetine (sometimes called Strattera). It doesn't alter dopamine levels however it does trigger an increase in the amount of noradrenaline, another messenger chemical that aids in the process of transfer information from one area of your brain to the other. best medication for adhd can help improve concentration and decrease impulses. However it takes a few weeks to fully experience the effects be felt.
A diagnosis and evaluation of adult ADHD will help you gain confidence to manage your symptoms. The first step is to speak to your GP, explain your concerns and ask for a referral to the nearest specialist clinic. The GPs are generally well-informed about neurodiverse disorders, such as ADHD and will be in a position to assist you.
It's normal to be nervous prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist. This is especially true when you are considering taking medication. You might have heard horror stories or watched documentaries such as Netflix's 'Take Your Pills', that can make you wonder if you are going to turn into a zombie on psychiatric medication. Our psychiatrists are highly experienced in ADHD and can make you feel secure and at ease during the process. They will start you on your medication and then arrange regular appointments every two weeks or monthly to monitor your progress and dosage levels, according to the treatment you choose. You will then be able to return to your GP to continue your care and treatment.