ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS statistics, the amount of adults taking ADHD medication has tripled over the last few years. But it's still only a tiny fraction of people who are diagnosed with the condition.
on the main page boost brain activity by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and noradrenaline that transmit messages between nerves. They also boost blood flow to the brain cells.
Stimulants
If you are suffering from ADHD as an adult, you may need medication. In the UK this is the most common first option for treatment. However, talking therapy (psychotherapy) is highly recommended. Talk therapy can help you and your family to make sense of your behaviors and issues and also helps you develop coping strategies that are healthy and effective.
Stimulants alter the amount of neurotransmitters that send messages between brain nerves such as norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves focus and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. The NHS provides a range of stimulant medications, but the most popular are methylphenidate and the newer amphetamine-based drug Lisdexamfetamine. These drugs are fast-acting and usually take between 45 and 60 minutes to start working.
Some people don't like these drugs, even though they have been around for a long time. In fact, they may cause insomnia and agitation in some people. This is why it is important to discuss any adverse effects with your GP and find a medication that suits your needs.
There are many non-stimulant ADHD drugs that perform differently and produce less negative side effects. Atomoxetine, also known as Strateva, is one of these drugs. It works by increasing the levels of noradrenaline that are present in the brain. This neurotransmitter relays messages from nerve to nerve. They are prescribed when stimulants aren't working or are too excessive for the patient. They may be prescribed "off label" if it is thought that they could aid in reducing ADHD symptoms for certain people including those suffering from anxiety and depression.
If your GP recommends medication, he or she will discuss with you the advantages and disadvantages. They will also provide the best method to use the medication and will monitor your progress and dosage. This will involve fortnightly, then monthly, appointments with your psychiatrist.
Medications are not the only treatment for ADHD, but they are the most widely used and are recommended by Nice in their most recent guidance for adults suffering from the condition. on the main page are also available that can help you and your family cope with your ADHD symptoms, however they are not typically offered by the NHS unless you are receiving them as part of an assessment and management package.
It is worth remembering that there isn't a cure for ADHD but the right medication can ease your symptoms and make it easier to live in a society that's not designed for neurodiversity. It is your choice to choose ADHD medication and your psychiatrist should not pressure you in any way. Many people choose to pursue therapy instead and discover that it's sufficient to deal with their ADHD symptoms. If you do decide to take medication, it should be done under the supervision of an experienced specialist psychiatrist who understands the advantages and risks involved. The psychiatrist can help you and your family develop ways of coping that will allow you to manage any lingering symptoms and avoid problems in the future.