ADHD Medication Options For Adults UK
There are two types: stimulants and other medications. Stimulants balance and boost levels of brain chemicals that control attention and the ability to focus.
Adult ADHD medications are controlled substances, and only a specialist ADHD doctor can prescribe these medications. Your GP is not able to prescribe them. They are usually prescribed in a six-week test before changing or increasing the dosage.
Stimulants
Adults suffering from ADHD are primarily treated with medications. The choice of medications is now much wider than it was when ADHD was first recognized as a disorder. In the UK and other countries in Europe psychiatrists are able to treat ADHD with a variety of choices.
As a first line of treatment it is recommended to take stimulants. These drugs increase the activity in parts of the brain which control the flow of information, motivation, and mood. They also reduce impulsivity, and boost concentration. They are available in short-acting and long-acting tablets. They are also referred to 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 immediate release or prolonged release, according to your preference and severity of symptoms. These are controlled drugs, meaning that you are able to get them on prescription from a psychiatrist, and they will need to be monitored closely.
Other medications may also be prescribed to treat adults with ADHD. These include guanfacine (marketed under the brand names Vyvanse or Concerta) and lisdexamfetamine. These medications affect different parts in the brain to improve focus and attention. They also help lower blood pressure. In general, these are less likely to cause adverse effects than methylphenidate or amphetamine salts and could be better suited for people who experience these.
Other medications include antidepressants and a selection of anti-anxiety medication, but these are usually considered as a second-line option or for people who are unable to relieve the symptoms with stimulants or other medications. Psychiatrists also typically recommend therapy in conjunction with the use of medication as it is not possible to change longstanding negative coping mechanisms by taking medication alone.
It is essential to remember that taking medication for ADHD is an individual decision. A psychiatrist should never make anyone take it. A specialist psychiatrist will adjust the dosage to meet the needs of each patient in order to avoid any serious unwanted side effects. a fantastic read between medication and therapy can enhance your life quality. However, it's important to consult a psychiatrist before starting any medication.
ADHD symptoms must be disruptive and severe in all aspects of daily life in order to be eligible for a referral to a specialist for assessment and diagnosis. This includes school, home, work and social life. If you suspect that you or your child might have ADHD Talk to your GP and ask for the referral to an NHS clinic that deals with the management of neurodiverse conditions such as ADHD.
TB declares advisory or consulting roles with Actelion Hexal Pharma Lilly, Medice Novartis Otsuka PCM Scientific, Hogrefe Kohlhammer, Medice Oxford Outcomes; speaker's fees or conference support from Medice and royalties as well as grants from Shire. DC declares personal fees from Shire and Viforpharma as well as grants from Oxford University Press and Servier and research collaboration with Medice Otsuka, Medice and Novartis.