Adult ADHD Medication UK
The use of medication can reduce the symptoms of ADHD, but they are not a cure. People suffering from ADHD often benefit from talking therapy and lifestyle modifications.
Stimulants increase your brain's amount of certain chemicals which allow your cells to communicate. Initially, your psychiatrist will prescribe a medication and gradually alter the dosage to determine the most effective balance for you.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the oldest of all ADHD medication and are likely to be first prescribed to those who require them. They boost the activity of the regions of your brain that control attention and help you take action. They also boost levels of chemicals called dopamine and norepinephrine, which transmit messages between brain cells.
There are stimulants with short-acting effects that need to be taken at least 2 or 3 times per day, and long-acting ones that can be taken one time a day. Your doctor and you will determine the best stimulant for you depending on your preferences, whether or not you take pills or not, as well as the cost.
The most common ADHD drugs are methylphenidates or amphetamines. Both have a long record of use that is safe for children, and studies have shown that they can be as effective for adults. They can be taken as tablets or liquids, and generally start to have an effect within one hour. They are well tolerated and can be used for short-term or long-term treatment. you can check here include headaches, sleep problems and loss of appetite.
Atomoxetine (also known as Vyvanse) is a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor which means it increases the quantity of a substance in your brain known as noradrenaline. It can improve concentration and decrease impulse-driven behavior, but it may cause more serious adverse effects than methylphenidates and lisdexamfetamine. It is available as daily tablets or in modified release form that can only be taken one time a day.
Lisdexamfetamine is a combination of dexamphetamine with methylphenidate. It is broken down in the body to produce its effects over the course of several hours. NICE recommends it as a first-line treatment for adults. They suggest that you could switch to it when your GP gives you a six-week trial of methylphenidate.
Doctors tend to prescribe unlicensed medication for adults as opposed to younger patients, and will often suggest alternatives. These are usually cheaper, but they may not have been fully tested thus are 'off license'. It does not mean they aren't dangerous. However, you will need to pay a private psychiatrist to get these. The NHS is unlikely to cover them.
Increased awareness of ADHD is great however, it must be accompanied by a greater investment in services for adults suffering from the condition. We are at risk of creating a generation of people who will struggle at school, at work and in their relationships if we don't take action. Those who are not helped by housing, education or healthcare as well as other support services may end up with mental health issues that lead to unemployment, homelessness, drug misuse, crime and health-related issues. for their families.
GPs are trained to assess the presence of ADHD and refer patients to specialist clinics. They will ask you about your symptoms, and then perform a series tests to rule out any other illnesses. Clinics like these have specialists in the field of depression, anxiety, Tourettes, autism, and fears. They will prescribe the appropriate medication for your particular situation.