The Three Greatest Moments In ADHD Medication For Adults UK History

ADHD Medication For Adults UK

Celebrities like Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, spreading awareness about the condition. The NHS is struggling with the demand. There are long queues to be diagnosed, and a taskforce has been set up to improve service.

Stimulant medications are the most common treatment, boosting levels of certain brain chemicals to reduce inattention and hyperactivity. However they're not the only solution.

Stimulants

The positive side is that ADHD medication has changed since its first appearance in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better place than Europe or America with a wide selection of medications available. The first choice stimulant is methylphenidate.  managing adhd without medication  is also referred to as Ritalin. It comes in quick-release and extended-release tablets. It works by increasing the dopamine activity in your brain, which reduces the impulsivity of your brain and makes it easier to pay attention. It also increases motivation and decrease hyperactivity. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. They include Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine which are often prescribed for those suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine has less adverse effects than clonidine, and can help to reduce tics as well as impulsivity.

Amphetamines are the next group of medications commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate, but they can cause more adverse reactions such as insomnia and increased hunger. However, they are beneficial for certain people and are generally thought to be safer than the other stimulants available. 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).

There is a non-stimulant medicine sometimes used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD that is called Atomoxetine (sometimes called Strattera). This medication doesn't affect dopamine but it does increase noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is an additional type of messenger molecule that assists in transfer information between different parts of the brain. It helps in focusing and reducing impulses, but it may take a few weeks to fully take effect.

A diagnosis and evaluation of adult ADHD will help you gain confidence in managing your symptoms. The first step is to speak to your GP and explain your concerns and ask for an appointment with the nearest specialist clinic. GPs will be able help you if they are well-informed about neurodiverse conditions, like ADHD.

It's normal to feel nervous before your first consultation with a psychiatrist, especially when you're considering taking medications. You might have seen documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or heard horror stories that make you wonder whether you'll become zombies when you are taking psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists are experienced in ADHD and will make sure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the process. They will start you on your medication, and then schedule fortnightly or monthly appointments to track your progress and dosage levels, according to the treatment you choose. You can visit your GP to continue your treatment.