ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS statistics, the amount of adults who take ADHD medication has doubled in the last few years. This is a tiny percentage of those diagnosed with the condition.
Stimulants stimulate brain activity by increasing levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and noradrenaline, which transmit messages between nerves. They also boost blood flow to the brain.
Stimulants
If you have ADHD as an adult, you may need medication. This is typically the first line of therapy in the UK however, therapy for talk (psychotherapy) is also highly recommended. Talk therapy can help you and your family make sense of your behaviours and issues and also helps you develop coping strategies that are healthy and effective.
Stimulants alter the quantity of neurotransmitters that send messages between nerves in the brain such as norepinephrine and dopamine. This improves concentration and decreases hyperactivity and impulsivity. There are many stimulant medications available on the NHS and methylphenidate (Ritalin) or the more recent amphetamine-based drug lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are the most popular options. These medications are quick-acting and generally take between 45 and 60 minutes to begin working.
These drugs have been in use for quite a while and are extremely effective, but there are some people who aren't a good fit for them. Certain people may experience increased levels of anxiety or insomnia. It is essential to discuss any adverse effects and choose a medication you like with your GP.
There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD drugs that perform differently and have less adverse negative effects. Atomoxetine, also known as Strateva, is one of these medications. It is a drug that increases the levels of noradrenaline in the brain. This neurotransmitter is responsible for relaying messages from nerve to nerve. These are prescribed when stimulants aren't working or are intolerable. They can be prescribed "off label" when it is believed that they could help ADHD symptoms in certain people, like those with anxiety or depression.
If your GP recommends medication, they will discuss with you the pros and cons. They will also discuss the best way to take the medication and will be required to monitor your growth and dosage levels. This will require you to attend fortnightly, and then monthly sessions with your psychiatrist.
Nice's latest guide for adults with ADHD recommends medication as the most commonly used treatment. Psychosocial therapies can help you, your family and acquaintances deal with ADHD symptoms. However, they are not provided by the NHS except as part of an assessment program.
It is worth remembering that there isn't a cure for ADHD however, the right medication can ease your symptoms and help you to function in a world that's not designed to accommodate neurodiversity. Ultimately, though, it's your decision whether to take ADHD medications and your psychiatrist should not pressure you in one way or the other. Many people choose to pursue therapy and find that it's enough to manage their ADHD symptoms. However, if medication for inattentive adhd decide to take medication, this should be under the guidance of a specialist psychiatrist who understands the advantages and risks involved. The psychiatrist can help you and your family develop strategies for coping that will help you to manage any lingering symptoms and avoid problems in the future.