ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have revealed their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses in public, boosting awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling to cope with the demand, with long queues for diagnosis and a taskforce established to improve services.
The most effective treatment is stimulant drugs, which boost levels of a certain chemical in the brain to decrease excessive activity. They are not an effective treatment.
Stimulants
The positive side is that treatment for ADHD has progressed a lot since it first became an alternative treatment in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better position than Europe or America, with a decent choice of drugs on offer. The first choice stimulant is methylphenidate. It is also referred to as Ritalin. It comes in both extended-release and quick-release tablets. It works by increasing the amount of dopamine that is produced in your brain, which decreases impulsivity and helps you pay attention. It can also increase motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. These include Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are often prescribed for those suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine is less prone to side effects than clonidine, and it may reduce both impulses and tics.
Amphetamines are the next class of drugs commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate, but they can cause more adverse effects such as insomnia and increased hunger. However, they can be beneficial for certain individuals and are generally considered to be safer 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).
There is a non-stimulant medicine often used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD, which is Atomoxetine (sometimes called Strattera). This medication does not affect dopamine but it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is another type of messenger molecule that helps transfer information between different brain regions. It helps in focusing and reducing impulses, but it can take several weeks to have a full effect.
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 explain your concerns and request an appointment with the local specialist clinic. GPs will be able help you if they're knowledgeable about neurodiverse conditions, like ADHD.
It's normal to be nervous prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist, particularly in the event that you're thinking about taking the use of medication. You may have heard scare stories, or watched documentaries such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" that can leave you wondering if you will become zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists are highly experienced in ADHD and can make you feel safe and secure during the process. Depending on adhd medication adults uk that you select, they'll begin your treatment and schedule monthly or fortnightly appointments to monitor your development. You can return to your GP to continue treatment.