ADHD Medication For Adults UK
According to NHS statistics, the amount of adults taking ADHD medication has doubled in the last few years. But this is still just a small percentage of people diagnosed with the condition.
Stimulants boost brain activity by boosting levels of neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline that convey messages between nerves. They also increase blood flow to the brain.
Stimulants
If you suffer from ADHD as an adult, you may need medication. In the UK this is the most common first line of treatment. However, talk therapy (psychotherapy), is also highly recommended. Talk therapy helps you and your family make sense of your behavior and issues, as well as helping you develop healthy coping strategies.
Stimulants alter the quantity of neurotransmitters found in the brain - specifically dopamine and norepinephrine, which transmit messages between nerves. This increases concentration and reduces the impulsivity and hyperactivity. The NHS offers a variety of stimulant medications, but the most well-known are methylphenidate and the newer amphetamine-based medicine lisdexamfetamine. These drugs work quickly, usually within 45-60 minutes.
These drugs have been around for a long time and are extremely effective, but there are some individuals who aren't well-reacted to them. In fact, they can increase feelings of anxiety and insomnia in certain people. It is important to talk about any side effects and find an appropriate medication with your GP.
There are a number of non-stimulant ADHD drugs that function in different ways and come with less harmful adverse effects. Atomoxetine is also referred to as Strateva, is one of these medicines. It is a drug that increases the levels of noradrenaline in the brain. This neurotransmitter is responsible for relaying messages from nerve to nerve. They are prescribed when stimulants don't work or are too much for the patient. They may also be prescribed off label' when they are thought to help with ADHD symptoms in certain individuals, for example, those who suffer from comorbid depression or anxiety.
If your GP decides to take medication, they will go over the advantages and disadvantages of using it for a prolonged period of time with you. They will also explain the best way to use the medicine and will need to monitor your progress and dosage levels. This will require every fortnight, and then monthly sessions with your psychiatrist.
There are many method to treat ADHD but they are the most commonly employed and are recommended by Nice in their latest guidance for adults suffering from the condition. Psychosocial therapies can assist you, your family members and acquaintances deal with ADHD symptoms. However, they are not provided by the NHS except as part of an assessment program.
It's important to keep in mind that there's no cure or treatment for ADHD. However, the right medication can alleviate your symptoms in a society that doesn't accept neurodiversity. It's ultimately your decision to take ADHD medication and your doctor isn't obligated in any way. Many people opt to pursue therapy instead and find that it's enough to treat their ADHD symptoms. If you do decide to take medication, this should be under the guidance of a qualified specialist psychiatrist who understands the benefits and risks involved. Full Post can help you and your family members develop strategies to cope to help you manage any persistent symptoms and avoid future issues.