7 Small Changes You Can Make That'll Make A Big Difference In Your ADHD Medication For Adults UK

ADHD Medication For Adults UK

Celebrities like Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have shared their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses in public, boosting awareness of the condition. The NHS is struggling with the demand. There are long lines to be diagnosed and a taskforce was established to improve the service.

The main treatment is stimulant drugs, which boost levels of certain chemicals in the brain to decrease inattention and excessive activity. They aren't a cure.

Stimulants

The positive side is that ADHD medication has changed since its first appearance in the 1980s. The UK offers a greater choice of drugs than Europe or America. The first stimulant of choice is methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin. It is available in quick-release and extended-release tablets. It works by increasing dopamine levels in your brain. This reduces impulsivity and helps you to pay attention. It can also increase motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. Certain people suffering from Tourette's syndrome are prescribed clonidine (brand name Tenex) or guanfacine. Guanfacine is less side-effect prone than clonidine, and can reduce tics as well as impulsivity.

Amphetamines belong to the next category of drugs that are frequently prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate, however they may cause more side effects like insomnia and an increase in hunger. However,  adhd medication list  are effective for some people and are generally thought to be more secure than 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 one non-stimulant medication often used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD, which is Atomoxetine (sometimes known as Strattera). The medication does not alter dopamine levels, but it does boost noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is a different kind of messenger molecule that helps transfer information between different parts of the brain. It can help improve concentration and also reduce impulses. However it takes a few weeks before the full effects can be felt.

A diagnosis and assessment of adult ADHD will give you more confidence to manage your symptoms. Talk to  non stimulant adhd medication  and explain your concerns. Ask for a referral. The GP will be able to assist you if they're well-informed about neurodiverse disorders such as ADHD.

It's normal to feel nervous prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist, especially when you're considering taking medication. You may have heard scare stories, or watched documentaries like Netflix's 'Take Your Pills', that can make you wonder if you will be turned into zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have years of experience in ADHD and can make you feel safe and secure throughout the process. They will start you on your medication, and then schedule regular appointments every two weeks or monthly to monitor your growth and dosage levels, depending on the service you select. You can visit your GP to continue your treatment.