ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, bringing awareness about the condition. adhd medication pregnancy is battling with the demand. There are long queues to get diagnosed and a taskforce has been set up to improve service.
The most effective treatment is stimulant drugs that increase levels of a certain chemical in the brain to decrease inattention and excessive activity. They aren't the only solution.
Stimulants
The positive side is that ADHD medication has evolved since its first appearance in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better position than Europe or America and has a good range of available medications. The most popular stimulant available is methylphenidate (often referred to as Ritalin) It is available in both short- and extended-release tablets. It works by increasing dopamine production in your brain. This reduces impulsivity, and helps you to pay attention. It also reduces hyperactivity and increase motivation. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. Certain people suffering from Tourette's syndrome are prescribed Clonidine (brand name Tenex) or Guanfacine. Guanfacine has less side effects than clonidine and may help reduce both tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines is the next category of drugs that are typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate but can have more adverse effects, including an increase in appetite and insomnia. However, they are beneficial for certain people and are generally considered to be safer than other stimulants available. 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 known as Atomoxetine (sometimes called Strattera). The medication does not alter dopamine, but it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is an additional type of messenger molecule that helps pass information between parts of the brain. It helps with concentration and reduces impulses, however it may take a few weeks to take effect.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD will give you more confidence to manage your symptoms. The first step is to speak to your GP, explain your concerns and ask for an appointment at the nearest specialist clinic. They are generally well-informed about neurodiverse diseases, such as ADHD and are able to help you.
It's normal to feel nervous prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist. This is especially true if are considering medication. You may have heard scary stories or watched documentaries like Netflix's 'Take Your Pills', that can make you wonder if you will become a zombie on psychiatric medication. Our psychiatrists have huge experience of ADHD, and are skilled at making you feel comfortable and secure throughout the procedure. Depending on the service that you select, they'll start you on medication and schedule monthly or fortnightly appointments to check on your development. Then, adhd medication ritalin can return to your GP for ongoing care and treatment.