ADHD Medication For Adults UK: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

· 2 min read
ADHD Medication For Adults UK: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

ADHD Medication For Adults UK

Celebrities such as Sue Perkins and Jonny Vegas have shared their attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses publicly increasing awareness of the condition. The NHS is battling with the demand. There are long lines to be diagnosed, and a taskforce was established to improve the service.

Stimulant medications are the most common treatment, boosting levels of certain brain chemicals to reduce hyperactivity and inattention. But, they're not the only solution.

Stimulants

The good news is that medication for ADHD has come a long way since it first became an option for treatment in the 1980s. The UK is now in a better place than Europe or America, with a decent range of available medications. The first choice stimulant is methylphenidate. It is also referred to as Ritalin. It comes in both extended-release and quick-release tablets. It works by enhancing the activity of dopamine in your brain, which reduces the tendency to be impulsive and assists in paying attention. It also reduces the amount of hyperactivity and boost motivation. There are a number of other medications that function as stimulants, but aren't methylphenidate. This includes Guanfacine (brand name Tenex) and clonidine, which are sometimes prescribed for those with Tourette's disease.  natural adhd medication  is less prone to side effects than clonidine and may reduce both tics as well as impulsivity.


Amphetamines are the next class of medications that are commonly prescribed for ADHD. They are more powerful than methylphenidate, but they can cause more side effects such as insomnia and increased hunger. They may be beneficial for some people and are generally regarded as less harmful than other stimulants. 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 medication that is sometimes prescribed in the UK to adults with ADHD.  buy adhd medication online  doesn't alter dopamine levels however it does trigger an increase in noradrenaline levels, another messenger chemical that aids in the process of pass information from one part of your brain to another. It helps with concentration and reduces impulses, however it may take a few weeks to fully take effect.

An assessment and diagnosis of adult ADHD can help you gain confidence in the way you manage your symptoms. The first step is to talk to your GP and discuss your concerns and request a referral to the local specialist clinic. The GP will be able to assist you if they are well-informed about neurodiverse disorders like ADHD.

It's normal to be nervous prior to your first appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in the event that you're thinking about taking medications. You might have heard horror stories, or watched documentaries, such as Netflix's "Take Your Pills" which can make you wonder if will be turned into zombies while taking psychiatric medications. Our psychiatrists have huge experience with ADHD and are adept in making you feel at ease and safe throughout the process. Based on the type of treatment you select, they will start you on medication and will then schedule fortnightly or month-to-month appointments to check on your progress. You may return to your GP to continue your treatment.