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ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS statistics, the number of adults taking ADHD medication has doubled in the past few years. But it's still a small proportion of the people diagnosed with the condition.
Stimulants stimulate brain activity by increasing levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and noradrenaline. These transmit messages between nerves. They also increase blood flow to the brain.
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If you're diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, you might require medication. In the UK this is the most common first line of treatment. However, talking therapy (psychotherapy) is highly recommended. Talk therapy helps 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 work by altering 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. There are several stimulant medications available on the NHS and methylphenidate (Ritalin) or the more recent amphetamine-based medication Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are the most commonly used choices. These drugs work quickly, usually within 45-60 minutes.
Some people don't like these drugs even though they've been around a long time. In fact, they may increase feelings of insomnia and agitation in some people. It is essential to discuss any adverse effects and find the medication you prefer with your GP.
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD drugs that function in various ways and have less serious adverse effects. Atomoxetine is also referred to as Strateva is one of these drugs. It is a drug that increases the levels of noradrenaline that are present in the brain. This neurotransmitter is responsible for relaying messages from nerve to nerve. These are used when stimulants don't work or are too much for the patient. They can be prescribed "off label" in the event that it is believed that they could help ADHD symptoms for certain people, like those with anxiety and depression.
If your GP decides you need to take medication, they will go over 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. This will mean you'll need to have fortnightly and then monthly sessions with your psychiatrist.
Nice's most recent guide for adults suffering from ADHD suggests medication as the most popular treatment. Psychosocial therapies are also available that can assist you and your family cope with your ADHD symptoms, but these are not generally provided by the NHS unless you are already receiving them as part of an assessment and treatment program.
It's important to remember that there isn't a cure or treatment for ADHD. However the right medication could manage your symptoms in a world that doesn't accept neurodiversity. It's ultimately your decision to decide whether or not you want to take ADHD medication, and your psychiatrist should not pressure you 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 supervision of a specialist psychiatrist who knows the risks and benefits involved. The psychiatrist can assist you and your family develop coping mechanisms that can help you manage any lingering symptoms and avoid issues in the future.