ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, bringing awareness of the condition. The NHS is unable to cope with demand, with long wait times for diagnosis and a taskforce formed to improve the quality of services.
Stimulant drugs are the primary treatment, increasing levels of certain brain chemicals to decrease inattention and hyperactivity. However, they're not an effective treatment.
Stimulants
The positive side is that treatment for ADHD has progressed a lot since it first became an option for treatment in the 1980s. The UK offers a greater range of medications than Europe or America. The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin. It comes in quick-release and extended-release tablets. It is a stimulant that increases dopamine production in your brain. This reduces impulsivity, and helps you to pay attention. It can also reduce the amount of hyperactivity and boost motivation. There are a number of other medicines which act like stimulants but aren't methylphenidate. This includes guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are sometimes prescribed for those suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine is less side-effect prone than clonidine, and could reduce both tics as well as impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next class of medications typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidates, but they could cause more side effects like insomnia and an increase in hunger. However, they can be effective for some people and are generally thought to be more secure than other stimulants on offer. 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 referred to as Strattera is a non-stimulant drug that is sometimes prescribed in the UK to people suffering from ADHD. It doesn't alter dopamine levels however it can cause an increase in noradrenaline, another messenger chemical that assists in pass information from one part of your brain to the other. It can aid in concentration and decrease impulses. However concerta adhd medication takes a few weeks before the full effects can be felt.
Having an assessment and diagnosis of adult ADHD can help you gain confidence in how to manage your symptoms. The first step is to speak to your GP and discuss your concerns and request an appointment at the local specialist clinic. GPs are usually well informed about neurodiverse conditions like ADHD, and will be competent to assist you.
It's normal to be nervous prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist. This is especially true if you are considering medication. You might have heard horror stories, or watched documentaries, such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" which can leave you wondering if you will become zombies while taking psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists have huge experience with ADHD and are adept in making you feel at ease and safe throughout the process. Based on the treatment you select, they'll begin your treatment and schedule monthly or fortnightly appointments to monitor your development. You can then return to your GP for ongoing care and treatment.