ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS statistics, the number of adults taking ADHD medication has doubled in the last few years. But this is still a small proportion of the people who are diagnosed with the condition.
Stimulants speed up brain activity by boosting levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline that convey messages between nerves. They also boost blood flow to the brain.
Stimulants
If you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, you might need to take medication. In the UK this is the usual first option for treatment. However, talk therapy (psychotherapy), is also highly recommended. Talk therapy can assist you and your family understand your behaviours and challenges and help you develop healthy coping strategies.
Stimulants alter the quantity of neurotransmitters which transmit messages between brain nerves including dopamine and norepinephrine. This increases concentration and reduces the 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 work quickly typically within 45-60 minutes.
Some people don't enjoy these drugs, even though they have been around for a long time. Certain people may experience increased symptoms of insomnia or agitation. It is essential to discuss any adverse effects and choose an appropriate medication with your GP.
There are many non-stimulant ADHD medications that work in different ways and come with less severe adverse effects. Atomoxetine (Strateva) is one of them and works by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline, which relays messages between nerves. adhd medication list are prescribed when stimulants aren't working or are intolerable. They can also be prescribed off label' if they're believed to be helpful in reducing ADHD symptoms in particular individuals, for example, those who suffer from comorbid depression or anxiety.
If your GP decides that you should take medication, they will go over the advantages and disadvantages of taking it for a long period of time with you. They will also outline how to use the medication and will have to keep track of your growth and dosage levels. This will require you to schedule fortnightly and monthly appointments with your psychiatrist.
There are many treatment for ADHD however they are the most widely employed and recommended by Nice in their latest guidance for adults with the condition. There are also psychosocial treatments which can help you and your family cope with your ADHD symptoms, but these aren't typically offered by the NHS unless you are already receiving them as part of an assessment and management package.
It's important to remember that there is no cure or treatment for ADHD. However, the right medication can help you manage your symptoms in a society that doesn't accept neurodiversity. It is your choice to decide whether or not you want to take ADHD medication, and your psychiatrist isn't obligated in any way. Many people opt to pursue therapy instead and discover that it's sufficient to manage their ADHD symptoms. If you decide to use medication, it should be under the guidance of an experienced psychiatrist who understands the risks and benefits. The psychiatrist can help you and your family develop ways of coping that will allow you manage any lingering symptoms and avoid problems in the future.