The 12 Most Unpleasant Types Of ADHD Medication For Adults UK Tweets You Follow

ADHD Medication For Adults UK

Celebrities such as Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, bringing awareness about the condition. The NHS is struggling to cope with demand, with long lines for diagnosis and a taskforce set up to improve the quality of services.

Stimulant drugs are the main treatment, increasing levels certain brain chemicals in order to reduce hyperactivity and inattention. They aren't an effective treatment.

Stimulants

The good news is that the treatment for ADHD has developed a lot since it first became available as a drug treatment in the 1980s. The UK has a much better choice of drugs than Europe or America. The first stimulant of choice is methylphenidate. It is also referred to as Ritalin. It is available in quick-release and extended-release tablets.  add adhd medications  works by increasing the amount of dopamine that is produced in your brain, which decreases the tendency to be impulsive and assists in paying attention. It also reduces anxiety and increase motivation. There are a number of other medications that act as stimulants but aren't methylphenidate. People with Tourette's Disorder are prescribed clonidine (brand name Tenex), or Guanfacine. Guanfacine is less side-effect prone than clonidine, and can reduce impulses and tics.

Amphetamines are the next class of drugs that are typically prescribed for ADHD. These are stronger than methylphenidate however they may cause more side effects, such as anxiety and insomnia. They can be effective for certain people and are generally considered safer than other stimulants. There are two amphetamines that you might be offered if methylphenidate doesn't work for you - dexamfetamine (brand name Lisdexamfetamine) and lisdexamfetamine/amphetamine hydrochloride (brand name Dexamfetamine).

There is a non-stimulant medicine that is commonly used in the UK for adults with ADHD that is called Atomoxetine (sometimes known as Strattera). This doesn't affect dopamine levels however it does trigger an increase in noradrenaline levels, another type of messenger chemical that assists in pass information from one part of your brain to the other. It helps with concentration and reduces impulses, however it can take a while to take effect.

An assessment and diagnosis of adult ADHD can help you gain confidence in how to manage your symptoms. Talk with your GP and discuss your concerns. Ask for a referral. They are generally well-informed about neurodiverse diseases, such as ADHD and will be in a position to assist you.

It's normal to be nervous prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist, particularly in the event that you're thinking about taking medication. You may have heard scare stories, or watched documentaries such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" which can make you wonder if you will become zombies while taking psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists are experienced in ADHD and will make sure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the process. Based on the treatment you choose, they will start you on medication and schedule monthly or fortnightly appointments to monitor your improvement. You can then return to your GP to continue your care and treatment.