ADHD Medication For Adults UK
NHS data indicate that the number of adults receiving ADHD medication has doubled in recent years. This is a small percentage of those diagnosed with the disorder.
Stimulants speed up brain activity by boosting levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline which transmit messages between nerves. They also increase blood flow to brain cells.
Stimulants
If you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, you might need to take medication. This is usually the first line of treatment here in the UK however, talking therapy (psychotherapy) is also highly recommended. Talk therapy can help you and your family make sense of your behavior and struggles as well as assisting you develop coping strategies that are healthy and effective.
Stimulants alter the amount of neurotransmitters that transmit messages between nerves in the brain including dopamine and norepinephrine. This improves focus and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. The NHS provides a range of stimulant medications, however the most popular are methylphenidate as well as the more recent amphetamine-based medicine Lisdexamfetamine. These medications are fast-acting and generally take between 45 and 60 minutes to begin working.
These drugs have been around for a long time and are extremely effective, but there are some individuals who aren't well-reacted to these drugs. Some people may experience increased symptoms of insomnia or agitation. It is important to talk about any side effects and select an appropriate medication with your GP.
There are many non-stimulant ADHD drugs that function in different ways and come with less serious side effects. Atomoxetine (Strateva) is one of them. It functions by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline, which transmits messages between nerves. These are used if stimulants haven't worked or are too much for the body. They can also be prescribed off label' if they are believed to be helpful in reducing ADHD symptoms in certain individuals, for example, those with a comorbid disorder like depression and anxiety.
If your GP decides you need to take medication, they will talk about the advantages and disadvantages of taking the medication for a long amount of time with you. They will also provide the best way to use the medication and monitor your progress and dosage levels. natural adhd medication will involve fortnightly, then monthly, sessions with your psychiatrist.
There are many treatment for ADHD but they are the most commonly employed and are recommended by Nice in their most recent guidance for adults suffering from the condition. Psychosocial therapies are also available that can assist you and your family cope with your ADHD symptoms, however they are not typically offered by the NHS unless you are receiving them as part of an assessment and treatment program.
It's important to keep in mind that there is no cure or treatment for ADHD. However the right medication could help you manage your symptoms in a world which doesn't promote neurodiversity. In the end, it's your choice whether or not to use ADHD medications and your psychiatrist shouldn't pressure you one way or another. Many people opt to pursue therapy instead and discover that it is enough to treat their ADHD symptoms. If you decide to take medication, this should be under the guidance of a specialist psychiatrist who understands the advantages and risks involved. The psychiatrist will be able to assist you and your family develop strategies for coping that will help you manage any lingering symptoms and prevent problems in the future.