ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have shared their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses publicly to increase awareness of the condition. best adhd medication for adults with anxiety is struggling to keep up with the demand, with long wait times for diagnosis and a taskforce set up to improve the quality of services.
Stimulant drugs are the primary treatment, increasing levels of certain brain chemicals in order to reduce hyperactivity and inattention. But, they're not a cure.
Stimulants
The good news is that ADHD medication has changed since its first introduction in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better position than Europe or America and has a good choice of drugs on offer. The first choice stimulant is methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin. It comes in both quick-release and extended-release tablets. It increases dopamine levels in your brain. This reduces impulsivity and allows you to pay attention. It can also boost motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are a number of other medicines which act like stimulants but aren't. adhd medication pregnancy includes Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are sometimes prescribed for people who have Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine has fewer side effects than clonidine and could aid in reducing tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines belong to the next category of medications typically prescribed for ADHD. These are stronger than the methylphenidates, but they could cause more side effects such as insomnia and increased hunger. However, they can be beneficial for certain individuals and are generally thought to be more secure 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).
Atomoxetine, sometimes referred to Strattera is a non-stimulant medication that is sometimes prescribed in the UK to adults with ADHD. This medication doesn't alter dopamine levels, but it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is another type of messenger molecule that helps transmit information between the various parts of the brain. It helps with concentration and decreases impulses, but it can take several weeks to have a full effect.
A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD will give you more confidence to manage your symptoms. Talk with your GP and discuss your concerns. Ask for a referral. The GP will be able to assist you if they're knowledgeable about neurodiverse disorders, like ADHD.
It's common to feel apprehensive prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist, especially if you're thinking about the use of medication. You might have watched documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or read horror stories that make you wonder whether you'll become zombies if you take psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in ADHD and can make you feel safe and secure throughout the process. They will begin your medication and will then schedule fortnightly or monthly appointments to track your growth and dosage levels, dependent on the service you choose. You may return to your GP to continue your treatment.