ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS figures, the number of adults taking ADHD medication has doubled in the past few years. But it's still just a small percentage of people who are diagnosed with the condition.
Stimulants increase brain activity by increasing levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and noradrenaline. These transmit messages between nerves. They also boost blood flow to the brain cells.
adhd and medication
If you are suffering from ADHD as an adult you might require medication. This is usually the first line of treatment in the UK however, therapy for talk (psychotherapy) is also highly recommended. Talk therapy can assist you and your family members understand your behaviors and issues and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
The stimulants affect the quantity of neurotransmitters that are present in the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine that transmit messages between nerves. This improves focus and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. The NHS offers a range of stimulant medications, but the most popular are methylphenidate and the newer amphetamine-based medicine lisdexamfetamine. These drugs are fast-acting, usually within 45-60 minutes.
These drugs have been around for quite a while and are extremely effective, but there are some individuals who aren't well-reacted to them. In fact, they may increase feelings of agitation and insomnia in some people. This is why it's essential to discuss any side effects with your GP and select a treatment that suits your needs.
There are many non-stimulant ADHD drugs that perform differently and produce less adverse consequences. Atomoxetine (Strateva) is one of them. It works by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter naradrenaline which transmits messages between nerves. They are used when stimulants aren't working or are intolerable. They are prescribed "off label" when it is believed that they can aid ADHD symptoms in certain people, like those with anxiety and depression.
If your GP recommends medication, they will discuss with you the pros and cons. They will also explain the best way to use the medicine and will have to keep track of your progress and dosage levels. This will require every fortnight, and then monthly appointments with your psychiatrist.
There are many method to treat ADHD however they are the most commonly used and recommended by Nice in their latest guidance for adults suffering from the condition. There are also psychosocial treatments that can assist you and your family cope with your ADHD symptoms, however they are not typically available through the NHS unless you are receiving them as part of an assessment and management program.
It is worth remembering that there is no cure for ADHD but the right medication can ease your symptoms and make it easier to live in a society that's not designed for neurodiversity. It's your choice to decide whether or not you want to take ADHD medication and your psychiatrist should not pressure you in any way. Many people find that therapy is sufficient to treat their ADHD symptoms. However, if you decide to take medication, it should be done under the supervision of a qualified specialist psychiatrist who knows the benefits and risks. The psychiatrist can assist you and your family members create strategies for coping that will help you manage any symptoms that persist and avoid future problems.
