ADHD Medication Options For Adults UK
There are two kinds of ADHD treatment that are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants increase and balance levels of brain chemicals that regulate attention and impulsivity.
Adult ADHD medications are controlled substances only a specialist ADHD physician can prescribe these medications. Your GP cannot. They are usually given for six weeks before changing or increasing the dosage.
Stimulants
Adults with ADHD are mostly treated by medications. The selection of drugs is now much wider than it was before ADHD was first recognized as an illness. In the UK and other countries in Europe, psychiatrists can treat ADHD by offering a wide range of options.
As a first-line treatment the doctor prescribes stimulants. These medications increase the activity in parts of the brain which control the flow of information, motivation and mood. uk adhd medication reduce impulsivity and increase concentration. They are available in short or long-acting tablets, also known as modified or immediate release, and they are generally effective in managing symptoms of ADHD very quickly.
The two most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate, known as Ritalin amphetamines salts (Adderall). These can be taken in extended or immediate release tablets, and the kind of tablet you choose to take will depend on the type you prefer and the degree of your symptoms. These are controlled medications which means they can only be obtained on prescription and will need to monitored closely.
There are a variety of other medications that are prescribed for adults with ADHD, including guanfacine and Lisdexamfetamine (branded names Vyvanse and Concerta respectively). They work on different areas of the brain to increase attention and make focusing easier, and they can also aid in reducing blood pressure. They are less likely than methylphenidate and amphetamine to cause adverse effects, so they may be beneficial to people who have experienced them.
Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication and other medications are available. However, these are only recommended when stimulants or another medication has not brought relief. Psychiatrists will also usually recommend therapy in conjunction with the use of medication because it isn't possible to change longstanding negative coping mechanisms through medication by itself.
It is crucial to keep in mind that taking medication for ADHD is always a individual decision and no psychiatrist should ever try to force the patient to do it. A specialist psychiatrist will adjust dosage to meet the needs of each patient to prevent serious unwanted side effects. Finding the right balance of medication and therapy can significantly enhance your quality of life, but it is essential to see a psychiatrist for an accurate diagnosis prior to starting treatment with any medication.
ADHD symptoms must be disruptive, severe and present in multiple aspects of daily life to warrant a referral to a clinic for assessment and diagnosis. This includes work, school and social life. Talk with your GP If you or your child believes they might have ADHD. Ask for an appointment.
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