ADHD Medication Options For Adults UK
There are two types of stimulants and other drugs. Stimulants increase and balance levels of chemical in the brain which regulate attention and impulsivity.
Adult ADHD medications are controlled substances, and only a specialist ADHD physician can prescribe these medications. Your GP cannot. They are typically prescribed for a period of six weeks before changing or increasing the dosage.
Stimulants
Adults suffering from ADHD are mostly treated by medication. The range of drugs available is a lot more diverse than it was when 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.
The use of stimulants is often as the first course of action, and these drugs increase activity in the parts of the brain that control attention, motivation and mood. They also reduce impulsivity and improve concentration. They are available in short-acting and long-acting tablets, also known as immediate release or modified release. They are effective in treating ADHD symptoms quickly.
The two most frequently used stimulants are methylphenidate (better known as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts (Adderall). The tablets can be instant release or prolonged release, depending on your preference and the severity of symptoms. These are controlled drugs that means they are only available through prescription and have to be closely monitored.
There are also other medications that are prescribed for adults with ADHD such as guanfacine and lisdexamfetamine (branded names Vyvanse and Concerta respectively). These drugs affect various parts of the brain to improve focus and attention. mouse click the up coming article help lower blood pressure. In general, they are less likely to cause adverse reactions than the methylphenidate and amphetamine salts, so they may be more suitable for people who experience them.
Other options for treatment include antidepressants and a range of anti-anxiety drugs, however they are typically only recommended as a second line option or for people who are unable to relieve the symptoms with stimulants or other drugs. Psychiatrists also typically recommend therapy in conjunction with the use of medication as it is impossible to change the long-standing negative coping mechanisms by taking medication by itself.
It is important to remember that taking medication for ADHD can be a personal choice. No psychiatrist should ever oblige anyone to take it. A specialist psychiatrist will adjust dosage to meet the needs of each patient to prevent serious consequences. The right balance between medication and therapy can enhance your quality of life. But, it's essential to consult with a psychiatrist before starting any medication.
ADHD symptoms must be disruptive and severe in all aspects of daily life to be eligible for a referral to a specialist for assessment and diagnosis. This includes school, work and social life. If you think you or your child may be suffering from ADHD, talk to your GP and request a referral to an NHS clinic that focuses on the management of neurodiverse disorders such as ADHD.
TB declares advisory or consultant roles with Actelion, Hexal Pharma, Lilly, Medice, Novartis, Otsuka and PCM Scientific conference support or speaker's fees from Medice, Oxford Outcomes, Otsuka and Shire royalties from Hogrefe and Kohlhammer; grants from Shire and Viforpharma. DC declares personal fees and grants from Shire, Viforpharma and Oxford University Press and research collaborations with Medice Otsuka and Novartis.