ADHD Medication Options For Adults UK
There are two kinds of stimulants as well as other medications. Stimulants balance and boost levels of brain chemicals that regulate attention and impulsivity.
Adult ADHD medications are controlled substances and only a specialist ADHD physician can prescribe them. Your GP can't. They are typically prescribed for six weeks before changing or increasing the dosage.
Stimulants
Treatment with medication is the primary treatment for adults with ADHD and the range of medications is greater than when it was first identified as a condition. In the UK and other countries in Europe, psychiatrists can treat ADHD with a range of options.
As add adhd medications -line treatment, stimulants are prescribed. These medications increase the activity in parts of the brain that control motivation, attention, and mood. They also reduce impulsivity and improve concentration. They are available in short-acting and long-acting tablets. They are also referred to as immediate release or modified release. They are effective in treating ADHD symptoms very quickly.
The two most commonly used stimulants are methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, and amphetamines salts (Adderall). They can be taken as extended or immediate release tablets, and the kind of tablet you take will depend on your preference and the degree of your symptoms. These are controlled drugs that means they can only be obtained by prescription and need to be closely monitored.
Other medications may also be prescribed to treat adult ADHD. These include the guanfacine (marketed under the names Vyvanse or Concerta) and Lisdexamfetamine. These medications work on different parts of the brain to increase concentration and focus. They also help lower blood pressure. In general, these are less likely to cause side effects than the methylphenidate and amphetamine salts, and so might be more appropriate for people who experience these.
Other medications include antidepressants and a selection of anti-anxiety drugs, however these are usually considered as a second-line option for those who have difficulty overcoming the symptoms using stimulants or other medication. Psychiatrists will also usually recommend therapy in conjunction with the use of medication since it is not possible to change the long-standing negative coping mechanisms with medication by itself.
It is important to remember that taking medication for ADHD is a individual decision and no psychiatrist should ever force a patient into it. Medication can have serious side effects, and an experienced psychiatrist will adjust the doses on an individual basis to ensure that they are safe for each individual. The proper balance between therapy and medication can improve your quality-of-life. But, it's essential to consult with a psychiatrist prior to taking any medication.
ADHD symptoms must be severe and disruptive in multiple domains of daily life in order to be considered a clinical referral for diagnosis and assessment. This includes home, school and work, as well as social life. Talk with your GP in case you or your child thinks they might have ADHD. Ask for a referral.
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