ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS statistics, the amount of adults who take ADHD medication has doubled in the past few years. This is a tiny percentage of people diagnosed with the condition.
Stimulants increase brain activity by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and noradrenaline. These transmit messages between nerves. They also boost blood flow to the brain.
Stimulants
If you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, you may need to take medication. This is typically the first line of treatment in the UK, though talking therapy (psychotherapy) is also highly recommended. Talk therapy can aid you and your family understand your behavior and challenges and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Stimulants alter the amount of neurotransmitters that transmit messages between nerves in the brain including dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. There are several stimulant medications available on the NHS and methylphenidate (Ritalin) or the newer amphetamine based medication Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are the most common choices. These drugs are fast-acting and usually take between 45 and 60 minutes to begin working.
Some people don't like these drugs even though they've been around a long time. In fact, they may cause anxiety and insomnia in certain people. This is why it is important to discuss any adverse effects with your GP and find a medication that is suitable for you.
There are several non-stimulant ADHD drugs that perform differently and produce less side consequences. Atomoxetine (Strateva) is one of them. It functions by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline, that transmits signals between nerves. uk adhd medication are used if stimulants aren't working or intolerable. They can also be prescribed 'off label' when they are believed to be helpful in reducing ADHD symptoms in specific individuals, for example, those with a comorbid disorder like depression and anxiety.
If your GP suggests medication, they will discuss with you the advantages and disadvantages. They will also explain how it is best to use the medicine and will need to monitor your growth and dosage levels. This will mean weekly, and then monthly sessions with your psychiatrist.
There are many treatment for ADHD however they are the most widely utilized and recommended by Nice in their latest guidance for adults suffering from the condition. There are also psychosocial treatments that can assist you and your family cope with your ADHD symptoms, however they are not generally available through the NHS unless you are already receiving them as part of an assessment and management package.
It is worth remembering that there is no cure for ADHD but the appropriate medication can ease your symptoms and help you to live in a society that's not designed for neurodiversity. It's your choice to choose ADHD medication, and your psychiatrist should not pressure you in any way. Many people opt to pursue therapy instead and discover that it is enough to manage their ADHD symptoms. However, if you do decide to use medication, this should be under the guidance of an experienced specialist psychiatrist who understands the benefits and risks. The psychiatrist will be able to help you and your family members develop strategies for coping that will help you manage any lingering symptoms and avoid problems in the future.