ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities like Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnoses, raising awareness about the condition. The NHS is struggling with the demand. There are long lines to be diagnosed and a taskforce was set up to improve service.
The primary treatment is stimulant drugs, which increase levels of certain brain chemical to reduce inattention and excessive activity. But, they're not an effective treatment.
Stimulants
The good news is that medication for ADHD has come a long way since it first became an option for treatment in the 1980s. The UK is currently in a better position than Europe or America, with a decent selection of medications available. The first stimulant of choice is methylphenidate. managing adhd without medication is also referred to as Ritalin. It comes in both extended-release and quick-release tablets. It increases the amount of dopamine that is produced in your brain, which reduces the tendency to be impulsive and assists in paying attention. It can also boost motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are a number of other medications that function as stimulants but aren't. They include guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine, which are often prescribed to people who have Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine has less adverse effects than clonidine, and can aid in reducing tics and impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next group of drugs frequently prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidates, but they could cause more adverse effects like insomnia and an increase in hunger. They are effective for certain individuals and are generally considered 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, sometimes referred to Strattera, is a non-stimulant medicine that is sometimes prescribed in the UK to adults suffering from ADHD. It doesn't affect the levels of dopamine but does cause an increase in noradrenaline levels, another messenger chemical that aids in the process of pass information from one part of your brain to another. It aids in concentration and reduces impulses, however it can take a while to fully take effect.
dealing with adhd without medication and evaluation of adult ADHD will give you more confidence to manage your symptoms. The first step is to talk to your GP, explain your concerns and request an appointment with the nearest specialist clinic. They are generally well-informed about neurodiverse conditions, such as ADHD and will be competent to assist you.
It's normal to feel nervous before your first appointment with a psychiatrist. This is especially true if are considering taking medication. You might have watched documentaries such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or read horror stories that make you wonder whether you'll become zombies if you are taking psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have vast experience of ADHD and are adept in making you feel at ease and safe during the process. Based on the type of treatment you select, they will begin you on medication and then schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to monitor your progress. You can then return to your GP to continue your care and treatment.