ADHD Medication Options For Adults UK
There are two kinds of ADHD medication: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants increase and balance levels of chemical in the brain that regulate the impulsivity and attention.
Adult ADHD medications are controlled substances only a specialist ADHD physician can prescribe them. Your GP is not able to prescribe them. They are typically prescribed in a six-week test before switching or increasing the dose.
Stimulants
Treatment with medication is the primary treatment for adults suffering from ADHD, and the choice of medications is more extensive than when it was first identified as a condition. In the UK and other countries in Europe, psychiatrists can treat ADHD by offering a wide range of treatments.
As a first line of treatment, stimulants are prescribed. These drugs boost the activity in parts of the brain that control the flow of information, motivation and mood. non prescription adhd medication uk decrease impulsivity and increase concentration. They are available in short-acting or long-acting tablets. They are also referred to as immediate release or modified release. They are effective at treating ADHD symptoms very quickly.
The two most frequently used stimulants are the methylphenidate (better known as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts (Adderall). The tablets are available in immediate release or extended release, depending on your preference and the severity of symptoms. These are 'controlled' drugs, which means that they are only available on prescription and will need to monitored closely.
Other medications are also prescribed to treat adults with ADHD. These include Guanfacine (marketed under the brand names Vyvanse or Concerta) and lisdexamfetamine. These drugs affect various areas of the brain to increase focus and attention. They can also reduce blood pressure. In general, they are less likely to cause adverse effects than the methylphenidate and amphetamine salts, and so may be more suitable for people who experience these.
Other medication options include antidepressants and a range of anti-anxiety drugs, however these are usually only considered as a second-line option for those who have difficulty overcoming the symptoms using stimulants or other medication. Psychologists also recommend therapy in combination with medication, since it is difficult to alter the negative coping mechanisms that have been in place for a long time with medication.
It is crucial to remember that taking medication for ADHD can be an individual decision. No psychiatrist should ever make anyone take it. A specialist psychiatrist will adjust the dosage to meet the needs of each patient to avoid serious consequences. The right balance between medication and therapy can enhance your quality of life. However, it's essential to consult with an experienced psychiatrist prior to starting any medication.
ADHD symptoms should be severe, disruptive and present in a variety of areas of daily life to warrant a referral to a clinic for assessment and diagnosis. This includes work, school and social life. If you think you or your child might be suffering from ADHD Talk to your GP and request a referral to an NHS clinic that focuses on the treatment of neurodiverse disorders like ADHD.
TB declares advisory or consulting roles with Actelion Hexal Pharma Lilly, Medice Novartis Otsuka PCM Scientific, Hogrefe Kohlhammer, Medice Oxford Outcomes; speaker's fees or conference support from Medice as well as grants and royalties from Shire. DC declares personal fees from Shire and Viforpharma as well as grants from Oxford University Press and Servier and research collaborations with Medice Otsuka, Medice, and Novartis.