Adult ADHD Medication UK
Medications can help reduce symptoms of ADHD but they're not a cure. People with ADHD usually benefit from talking therapy and lifestyle adjustments.
The effects of stimulants increase the quantity of certain chemicals in your brain which allow brain cells to communicate. Your psychiatrist will first prescribe an medication, and then gradually adjust its dose to find the best balance.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most well-known of all ADHD medications and are likely to be initially prescribed to patients who need them. They help by increasing the activity in areas of your mind that control attention and help to take actions. They also boost levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, which transmit messages between your brain cells.
There are stimulants with an effect that is short-acting and must be taken twice or three times daily, and others which have a longer-lasting effect and can be taken only once a week. Your doctor and you will choose the best stimulant to use depending on your preferences, whether you are able to take pills or not, as well as the cost.
Methylphenidates and amphetamines are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications. Both have a long history of being used safely in children, and research shows that they can be just as effective for adults. They can be taken in the form of capsules, liquids, or tablets. The effects usually start within an hour. They are well-tolerated and can be used both for short-term or long-term treatment. The most frequent side effects include sleep issues, headaches, and loss of appetite.
Atomoxetine is also known as Vyvanse, is a selective inhibitor of noradrenaline uptake. This means it boosts the levels of noradrenaline in the brain. It can improve concentration and reduce impulsive behavior, but it could cause more serious adverse effects than methylphenidates and lisdexamfetamine. It is available as a daily tablet or modified release form that is only taken once every day.
Lisdexamfetamine, a combination of dexamphetamine (methylphenidate) and methylphenidate (methylphenidate), is broken down by the body and produces its effects over the course of time, which can last for several hours. NICE recommends it be utilized as a first-line treatment for adults. Your GP can switch you to it after the six-week methylphenidate study.
Doctors are more likely to prescribe non-licensed medication for adults compared to younger patients, and they'll often suggest alternatives. These are usually cheaper, but they may not have been fully tested so are 'off license'. This does not mean they aren't safe however it does mean that you need to pay for them through an individual psychiatrist and the NHS is not likely to cover them.
It is good that more people are aware of ADHD however, this must be accompanied by a greater investment in services to help adults with the condition. We risk creating a new generation of people who will struggle in school, at work and in their relationships if we don't take action. People who don't receive help from housing, education as well as healthcare services may end up with mental disorders that can cause unemployment, homelessness and crime, as well as substance abuse and health-related issues.
GPs are trained to diagnose ADHD and refer patients to specialist clinics. They will ask you about your symptoms and then conduct a series of tests to rule out any other disorders. Clinics like these have specialists in anxiety, depression, Tourettes, autism, and fears. medication for autism and adhd will prescribe the appropriate medication to treat your specific situation.