ADHD Medication Options For Adults UK
There are two types of stimulants and other drugs. Stimulants increase and balance levels of chemical in the brain that control attention and impulsivity.
Treatments for adults suffering from ADHD are controlled substances and must be prescribed by an experienced ADHD doctor, not your GP. They are often given as a trial of six weeks before switching or increasing the dose.
Stimulants
Adults suffering from ADHD are treated primarily by medications. The choice of medications is much more extensive than it was when ADHD was first recognized as a disorder. In the UK and other countries in Europe psychiatrists are able to treat ADHD by offering a wide range of options.
Stimulants are often prescribed as a first course of action and boost activity in the areas of the brain that regulate the mood, motivation and attention. They also reduce impulsivity, and improve concentration. They are available in short-acting or long-acting tablets. They are also referred to as immediate release or modified release. They are effective at treating ADHD symptoms very quickly.
The two most frequently used stimulants are methylphenidate (better known as Ritalin) and amphetamine salts (Adderall). The tablets are available in immediate release or extended release depending on your preference and the severity of symptoms. These are 'controlled drugs', meaning that you can only get them through a prescription from a psychiatrist and they must be closely monitored.
Other medications can also be prescribed to treat adults with ADHD. These include Guanfacine (marketed under the brand names Vyvanse or Concerta) and Lisdexamfetamine. They work on different areas of the brain to improve focus and help in focusing and also aid in reducing blood pressure. In adhd medication uk for adults , these are less likely to cause adverse effects than the methylphenidate and amphetamine salts, and so may be more suitable for those who have experienced these.
Other medications include antidepressants and a range of anti-anxiety medication, but they are typically only recommended as a second line option or for people who cannot find relief from the symptoms with stimulants or other medication. Psychologists also recommend therapy in conjunction with medication, as it is impossible to change negative coping mechanisms that have been in place for a long period of time by taking medications.
It is vital to keep in mind that taking medication for ADHD is a completely personal decision, and no psychiatrist should ever force a patient into it. A specialist psychiatrist will adjust dosage to meet the needs of each patient to prevent serious side effects. Having the right balance of therapy and medication can greatly enhance your quality of life, but it is essential to see an expert psychiatrist to get a clear diagnosis prior to starting treatment with any medication.
ADHD symptoms must be severe and disruptive in all aspects of daily life in order to be eligible for a referral to a specialist for diagnosis and assessment. This includes home, school as well as social and work. Talk to your GP if you or your child believes they may be suffering from ADHD. Request a referral.
TB declares consulting or advisory roles with Actelion Hexal Pharma Lilly, Medice Novartis Otsuka PCM Scientific, Hogrefe Kohlhammer, Medice Oxford Outcomes; speaker's fees or conference support from Medice as well as grants and royalties from Shire. DC declares personal costs and grants from Shire, Viforpharma and Oxford University Press and research collaborations with Medice Otsuka and Novartis.