ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, bringing awareness about the condition. The NHS is struggling with the demand. There are medication for adhd and anxiety to be diagnosed, and a taskforce has been established to improve the service.
The most effective treatment is stimulant drugs that increase levels of certain chemicals in the brain to decrease excessive activity. But, they're not the only solution.
Stimulants
The positive side is that ADHD medication has evolved since its first availability in the 1980s. The UK is currently in a better position than Europe or America with a wide choice of drugs on offer. The first-choice stimulant is methylphenidate (often known as Ritalin) It is available in extended-release and short-release tablets. It increases the amount of dopamine that is produced in your brain, which reduces impulsivity and helps you pay attention. It also increases motivation and decrease hyperactivity. 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 fewer side effects than clonidine and could help to reduce tics as well as impulsivity.
Amphetamines is the next group of drugs that are typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate but can have more adverse consequences, including an increase in appetite and insomnia. They can be effective for some people and are generally regarded as safer than other stimulants. 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, also known as Strattera, is a non-stimulant drug that is often prescribed in the UK to adults with ADHD. The medication does not affect dopamine but it does boost noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is another type of messenger molecule that helps pass information between brain regions. It aids in concentration and reducing impulses, but it can take several weeks to fully take effect.
Having an assessment and diagnosis of adult ADHD can give you a lot more confidence in managing your symptoms. Talk to your GP and share your concerns. Request an appointment. The GPs are generally well-informed about neurodiverse disorders, such as ADHD, and will be able to help you.
It's normal to be nervous prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in the event that you're thinking about taking medication. You may have heard scary stories or watched documentaries like Netflix's 'Take Your Pills', that can leave you wondering if you will become zombies while taking psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists have huge experience of ADHD, and are skilled at making you feel comfortable and safe during the procedure. They will get you started on your medication and then arrange weekly or monthly appointments to monitor your growth and dosage levels, dependent on the service you choose. You may return to your GP to continue treatment.