ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS statistics, the amount of adults who take ADHD medication has tripled over the past few years. This is a small percentage of people who are diagnosed with the condition.
Stimulants boost brain activity by boosting levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline that convey messages between nerves. They also boost blood flow to the brain cells.
Stimulants
If you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, you may need to take medication. In the UK it is the most common first line of treatment. However, talk therapy (psychotherapy), is also highly recommended. Talk therapy can help you and your family to make sense of your behaviors and issues, as well as helping you develop healthy coping strategies.
adhd medications alter the amount of neurotransmitters that transmit messages between brain nerves including dopamine and norepinephrine. This increases concentration and reduces the impulsivity and hyperactivity. The NHS provides a range of stimulant medications, but the most well-known are methylphenidate and the newer amphetamine-based medication lisdexamfetamine. These drugs are fast-acting typically within 45-60 minutes.
These drugs have been in use for a long time and are extremely effective, but there are some who aren't well-reacted to these drugs. Some people might experience more feelings of agitation or insomnia. It is essential to talk about any side effects and choose an appropriate medication with your GP.
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD drugs that function in different ways and come with less harmful adverse effects. Atomoxetine, also known as Strateva is one of these medicines. It is a drug that increases the levels of noradrenaline that are present in the brain. This neurotransmitter transmits messages from nerve to nerve. They are prescribed in cases where stimulants do not work or are too much for the patient. They can also be prescribed off label' if they are believed to be helpful in reducing ADHD symptoms in certain people, like those with a comorbid disorder like depression and anxiety.
If your GP decides you need to take medication, they will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using it for a long period of time with you. They will also explain how to take the medication and will need to monitor your growth and dosage levels. This will involve weekly, and then monthly sessions with your psychiatrist.
Nice's most recent guide for adults with ADHD suggests medication as the most common treatment. Psychosocial therapies are also available 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 package.
It's important to remember that there isn't a cure or treatment for ADHD. However the right medication could help you manage your symptoms in a world that doesn't support neurodiversity. It's your choice to choose ADHD medication and your psychiatrist isn't obligated in any way. Many people opt for therapy instead and discover that it is enough to manage their ADHD symptoms. If you decide to take medication, you should do so under the guidance of an experienced psychiatrist who is aware of the risks and benefits. The psychiatrist will be able to help you and your family members develop coping mechanisms that can help you manage any lingering symptoms and avoid problems in the future.