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ADHD Medication For Adults UK: 10 Things I'd Loved To Know Earlier
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 with the demand. There are long lines to get diagnosed and a taskforce was set up to improve service.

The primary treatment is stimulant drugs, which boost levels of certain chemicals in the brain to decrease excessive activity. They aren't a cure.

Stimulants


The positive side is that ADHD medication has changed since its first introduction in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better place than Europe or America and has a good range of available medications. The first choice stimulant is methylphenidate, which is also known as Ritalin. It is available in both extended-release and quick-release tablets. It increases the amount of dopamine that is produced in your brain, which reduces the tendency to be impulsive and assists in paying attention. It can also increase motivation and reduce hyperactivity. There are a number of other medications that function as stimulants but aren't methylphenidate. see this site includes Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine, which are often prescribed to those suffering from Tourette's syndrome. Guanfacine has less side effects than clonidine, and can help to reduce tics as well as impulsivity.

Amphetamines is the next category of drugs that are typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate, however they may cause more adverse reactions like insomnia and an increase in hunger. However, they can be effective for some people and are generally thought to be more secure than other stimulants on offer. 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).

Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera, is a non-stimulant medicine that is often prescribed in the UK to adults with ADHD. It doesn't alter dopamine levels however it can cause an increase in the amount of noradrenaline, another type of messenger chemical that helps to transfer information from one area of your brain to the other. It can help with concentration and also reduce impulses. However it takes a few weeks for the full effect to be felt.

Having an assessment and diagnosis of adult ADHD can provide you with more confidence in how to manage your symptoms. The first step is to talk to your GP and explain your concerns and request an appointment with the local specialist clinic. GPs will be able help you if they are well-informed about neurodiverse disorders, such as ADHD.

It's normal to be nervous prior to your first visit with a psychiatrist, especially if you're thinking about the use of medication. You may have heard scary stories, or watched documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" which can make you wonder if will become zombies on psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists have vast experience of ADHD, and are skilled in making you feel at ease and safe throughout the procedure. They will start you on your medication, and then schedule regular appointments every two weeks or monthly to monitor your improvement and dosage levels according to the treatment you select. You can visit your GP to continue treatment.

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