ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, spreading awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling with the demand. There are long queues to get diagnosed and a taskforce was set up to improve service.
The main treatment is stimulant drugs that increase levels of certain brain chemical to decrease excessive activity. But they're not an effective treatment.
Stimulants
The positive side is that ADHD medication has changed since its first availability in the 1980s. The UK has a much better range of medications than Europe or America. The first choice stimulant is methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin. adhd medication names is available in both quick-release and extended-release tablets. It works by enhancing the activity of dopamine in your brain, which reduces impulsivity and helps you pay attention. It can also reduce hyperactivity and increase motivation. There are a number of other medications that function as stimulants but aren't methylphenidate. add adhd medications suffering from Tourette's syndrome are prescribed Clonidine (brand name Tenex) or Guanfacine. Guanfacine is less side-effect prone than clonidine, and could reduce both impulses and tics.
Amphetamines are the next class of medications commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate however they may cause more side effects, including insomnia and increased appetite. medication for adhd are effective for certain individuals and are generally regarded as less harmful 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 referred to as Strattera is a non-stimulant medication that is often prescribed in the UK to adults with ADHD. The medication does not affect dopamine however it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is an additional type of messenger molecule that assists in transmit information between the various parts of the brain. It can help improve concentration and also reduce impulses. However, it takes several weeks before the full effects can be felt.
Having an assessment and diagnosis of adult ADHD can give you a lot more confidence in how to manage your symptoms. The first step is to talk to your GP and discuss your concerns and request an appointment at the local specialist clinic. The GP will be able to assist you if they're knowledgeable about neurodiverse disorders such as ADHD.
It's normal to feel nervous prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist. This is especially true if you are considering taking medication. You might have heard horror stories, or watched documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" that can leave you wondering if you will be turned into a zombie on psychiatric medication. Our psychiatrists are highly experienced in ADHD and can help you feel secure and at ease throughout the process. They will begin your medication and will then schedule fortnightly or monthly appointments to track your improvement and dosage levels according to the treatment you select. Then, you can return to your GP for continued care and treatment.