ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS statistics, the amount of adults taking ADHD medication has increased by three times over the past few years. However, this is a small proportion of the people who are diagnosed with the condition.
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.
Stimulants
If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, you may require medication. This is usually the first line of treatment here in the UK but talk therapy (psychotherapy) is also highly recommended. Talk therapy can help you and your family members make sense of your behavior and issues, as well as helping you develop healthy strategies for coping.
Stimulants alter the quantity of neurotransmitters found in the brain - namely dopamine and norepinephrine, which convey messages between nerves. This increases concentration and reduces the impulsivity and hyperactivity. The NHS provides a range of stimulant medications, however the most well-known are methylphenidate and the newer amphetamine-based medicine Lisdexamfetamine. These drugs are fast-acting typically within 45-60 minutes.
Some people aren't a fan of these drugs even though they've been around for a long time. In fact, they may cause insomnia and agitation in some people. medication for adhd is why it is important to discuss any adverse effects with your GP and choose a medication that suits your needs.
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD drugs that function in different ways and have less severe adverse effects. Atomoxetine (Strateva) is one of them. It functions by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter naradrenaline which transmits messages between nerves. These are prescribed when stimulants haven't worked or are too much for the body. They may be prescribed "off label" in the event that it is believed that they will aid in reducing ADHD symptoms in certain people such as those suffering from depression and anxiety.
If your GP decides that you should take medication, they will talk about the advantages and disadvantages of using it for a prolonged period of time with you. They will also discuss the best way to use the medication and will be required to monitor your progress and dosage levels. This will involve weekly, and then monthly appointments with your psychiatrist.
The use of medication is not the only way to treat ADHD however they are the most widely utilized and are recommended by Nice in their most recent guidance for adults suffering from the condition. Psychosocial therapies can assist you, your family and your friends deal with ADHD symptoms. However, they are not provided by the NHS except as part of an assessment program.
It's important to keep in mind that there is no cure for ADHD however, the right medication can help manage your symptoms and make it easier to live in a society which isn't designed for neurodiversity. Ultimately, though, it's your choice to take ADHD medication and your doctor should not pressure you one way or another. Many people choose to pursue therapy instead and find that it's sufficient to manage their ADHD symptoms. If you do decide to take medication, it should be done under the supervision of a specialist psychiatrist who is aware of the advantages and risks involved. The psychiatrist will be able to assist you and your family develop strategies for coping that will help you to manage any lingering symptoms and prevent problems in the future.