ADHD Medication For Adults UK
NHS statistics indicate that the number of adults getting ADHD medication has increased by three times in recent years. This is only a small proportion of those diagnosed with the disorder.
Stimulants boost brain activity by increasing levels of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and noradrenaline. These transmit messages between nerves. They also increase blood flow to brain.
Stimulants
If you have ADHD as an adult, you might require medication. This is typically the first line of therapy in the UK, though therapy for talk (psychotherapy) is also highly recommended. Talk therapy helps you and your family members make sense of your behaviours and challenges and also helps you develop healthy strategies for coping.
Stimulants alter the amount of neurotransmitters that send messages between nerves in the brain, namely dopamine & norepinephrine. This improves concentration and decreases the impulsivity and hyperactivity. The NHS offers a range of stimulant drugs, but the most well-known are methylphenidate and the newest amphetamine-based medication lisdexamfetamine. These medications are fast-acting and usually take between 45 and 60 minutes to start working.
Some people aren't a fan of these drugs even though they've been around for a long time. In fact, they can cause agitation and insomnia in some people. how does medication for adhd work 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 number of non-stimulant ADHD drugs that function in different ways and come with less harmful side effects. Atomoxetine (Strateva) is one of them. It works by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline that transmits signals between nerves. These are used when stimulants don't work or are too to much for the patient. They can also be prescribed off label' if they're believed to be helpful in reducing ADHD symptoms in certain people, like those who suffer from comorbid depression or anxiety.
If your GP decides you need to take medication, they will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of taking the medication for a long amount of time with you. They will also discuss the best method of using the medication and will need monitor your progress and dosage level. This will mean weekly, and then monthly sessions with your psychiatrist.
Nice's most recent guide for adults suffering from ADHD suggests medication as the most popular treatment. There are also psychosocial therapies which can help you and your family members cope with your ADHD symptoms, however they are not generally offered by the NHS unless you are already receiving them as part of an assessment and management program.
It is worth remembering that there isn't a cure for ADHD, but that the right medication can help manage your symptoms and help you to function in a world that's not designed for neurodiversity. It is your choice to decide whether or not you want to take ADHD medication and your doctor isn't obligated in any way. Many people find that therapy is sufficient to treat their ADHD symptoms. If you decide to use medication, you should do so under the supervision of a specialist psychiatrist who knows the risks and benefits. The psychiatrist can help you and your loved ones develop coping strategies to help you manage any lingering symptom and prevent future issues.