ADHD Medication UK For Adults
Celebrities like Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have revealed their ADHD diagnosis. This has raised awareness and the demand for medication. Specialist psychiatrists prescribe ADHD meds and carefully look at side effects to determine the best dose for each individual.
The first kind of medication is a stimulant, such as the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera is also approved to treat ADHD. However it functions differently and takes a longer time to be effective.
Stimulants
In the UK, stimulants can be used to treat ADHD. They work by changing the levels of neurotransmitters inside the brain to increase attention, decrease impulsivity and decrease hyperactivity. The psychiatric physician carefully adjusts the dosage of medication to find the best balance for each person. There are a variety of stimulant types, including amphetamines (such as Ritalin) and methylphenidates. Non-stimulants are also used. They include atomoxetine and dexamfetamine, although a new study suggests that these substances might have less impact than amphetamines or methylphenidate.
The use of medications is an integral part of treatment, and the majority of patients who use it do as a complement to psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can help someone develop healthy coping techniques and help to reduce negative behavior patterns. Medicines should not be viewed as an absolute solution, however, and some people choose not to take any medication. In the UK Talk therapy is recommended as first line treatment for adults with ADHD and is typically offered alongside medication.
Since the Covid pandemic began in 2005, the number of people who are prescribed ADHD medication has doubled. It is now higher than the number of children. This is due to the fact that patients who were not diagnosed or had their symptoms ignored were now being treated. However, it is possible that recent restrictions on health resources, particularly for psychological services, resulted in certain patients being offered pharmacological treatments before they would have otherwise been assessed.
There are five central nervous system (CNS) stimulants and ADHD medicines available on the NHS with amphetamines and methylphenidate being the most frequently prescribed. Typically, these are prescribed as short acting tablets that last for a few hours, or as a slow release tablet taken once per day (known as immediate or modified release). A recent study has suggested that amphetamines like lisdexamfetamine should be the most preferred treatment for adults with ADHD. The medication is cost-effective and effective and has a low risk of serious side effects.
Despite these clear benefits, it is not uncommon for stigma to persist, particularly amongst the neurodiverse communities where it can be observed. concerta adhd medication can be seen in unhelpful notions that divide those with ADHD into 'good' ones who reject medication and can manage their symptoms without it, and 'bad' individuals who rely on medications for relief. This could be a barrier to those who seek help and makes it difficult for them to access help and support.
There are risks associated with all medication. However there is evidence to support the use of ADHD medication as a part of the treatment of ADHD. The risk of serious side-effects is extremely low. They are further reduced by using a carefully controlled titration procedure, making sure that the medication is at the right strength and observing any adverse effects frequently during the initial stages of treatment. Additionally, the right environmental modifications can help alleviate the effects of ADHD and reduce the need for medication. This could include things like seating arrangements, ensuring that the space is quiet and free of distractions, using a timer to schedule breaks, optimizing education or work for shorter periods of concentration with a shift between activities, and using teaching assistants when it is possible.