ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS figures, the number of adults taking ADHD medication has tripled over the past few years. This is a tiny percentage of those diagnosed with the condition.
Stimulants boost brain activity by increasing the levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and noradrenaline. These transmit messages between nerves. They also boost blood flow to the brain.
Stimulants
If you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, you may need to take medication. This is usually the first line of therapy in the UK but talk therapy (psychotherapy) is also highly recommended. Talk therapy can assist you and your family members to understand your behaviors and issues and help you develop healthy coping strategies.
The stimulants affect the quantity of neurotransmitters found in the brain, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine that convey messages between nerves. This improves focus and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity. There are several stimulant medications available on the NHS and methylphenidate (Ritalin) or the newer amphetamine based medication Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are the most common choices. These drugs are fast-acting typically within 45-60 minutes.
These medications have been around for a long time and are extremely effective, but there are some people who aren't well-reacted to these drugs. Certain people may experience increased symptoms of insomnia or agitation. This is why it is important to discuss any adverse effects with your GP and choose a medication that is suitable for you.
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medications that function differently and have less side negative effects. Atomoxetine is also referred to as Strateva is one of these medications. click through the up coming webpage works by increasing the levels of noradrenaline that are present in the brain. This neurotransmitter is responsible for relaying messages from nerve to nerve. They are prescribed when stimulants don't work or are too excessive for the patient. They are prescribed "off label" when it is believed that they will aid ADHD symptoms in certain people such as those suffering from anxiety or depression.
If your GP suggests medication, he or she will discuss with you the pros and cons. They will also discuss how to take the medication and will be required to monitor your growth and dosage levels. This will require you to schedule fortnightly and monthly sessions with your psychiatrist.
The use of medication is not the only treatment for ADHD but they are the most widely employed and recommended by Nice in their latest guidance for adults with the condition. There are also psychosocial therapies which can help you and your family cope with your ADHD symptoms, but these aren't typically provided by the NHS unless you are receiving them as part of an assessment and treatment program.
It's important to remember that there isn't a cure for ADHD however, the right medication can help manage your symptoms and help you to live in a society that isn't set up to accommodate neurodiversity. It is your choice to take ADHD medication and your psychiatrist isn't obligated in any way. Many people find that therapy is sufficient to treat their ADHD symptoms. If you decide to take medication, it should be under the guidance of an experienced psychiatrist who understands the risks and benefits involved. The psychiatrist can help you and your loved ones develop coping strategies to help you manage any lingering symptom and prevent future issues.