ADHD Medication Options For Adults UK
There are two types: stimulants and other medications. Stimulants raise and balance levels of the chemicals in the brain which regulate the impulsivity and attention.
Medications for adults with ADHD are controlled substances and can only be prescribed by an expert ADHD specialist, not your GP. see it here are usually prescribed as a six-week trial before changing or increasing the dosage.
Stimulants
Adults with ADHD are primarily treated with medications. The selection of drugs is much more extensive than it was when ADHD was first recognized as an illness. In the UK, like many countries in Europe and America, there are a number of various options available to psychiatrists who treat ADHD.
As a first line of treatment it is recommended to take stimulants. These medications increase the activity of certain regions of the brain that regulate attention, motivation and mood. They also reduce impulsivity and increase concentration. They are available in short or long-acting tablets, known as modified or immediate release, and are generally effective in treating the symptoms of ADHD very quickly.
The two most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate (better known as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts (Adderall). The tablets are available in immediate release or prolonged release, depending on your preference and severity of symptoms. These are controlled drugs which means they can only be purchased by prescription and need to be monitored closely.
There are also other medications that are prescribed for adult ADHD such as guanfacine and lisdexamfetamine (branded names Vyvanse and Concerta respectively). These drugs affect various areas of the brain to improve focus and attention. They can also reduce blood pressure. They are less likely than methylphenidate or amphetamine to cause side effects, so they could be better for those who suffer from them.
Other options for treatment include antidepressants and a range of anti-anxiety medications, but these are usually suggested as a last resort option for those who have difficulty overcoming the symptoms by taking stimulants or other drugs. Psychiatrists also typically recommend therapy in conjunction with the use of medication since it isn't possible to change the long-standing negative coping mechanisms by taking medication alone.
It is essential to remember that taking medication for ADHD can be a personal choice. No psychiatrist should ever oblige anyone to take it. The medication can cause serious side effects and an experienced psychiatrist will adjust the doses on an individual basis to make sure that they are safe for each person. The right balance between therapy and medication can improve your quality-of-life. But, it's essential to consult with a psychiatrist before starting any medication.
ADHD symptoms must be severe and disruptive in all aspects of daily life to be eligible for a referral to a specialist for assessment and diagnosis. This includes work, school and social life. Talk with your GP in case you or your child believes they may have ADHD. Ask for a referral.
TB declares advisory or consultant roles with Actelion, Hexal Pharma, Lilly, Medice, Novartis, Otsuka and PCM Scientific conference support or speaker's fees from Medice, Oxford Outcomes, Otsuka and Shire royalties from Hogrefe and Kohlhammer as well as grants from Shire and Viforpharma. DC declares personal fees and grants from Shire, Viforpharma and Oxford University Press, and research collaborations with Medice Otsuka and Novartis.