ADHD Medication UK For Adults
Celebrities like Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have revealed their ADHD diagnosis. This has increased awareness and the demand for medication. Specialist psychiatrists prescribe ADHD medications and carefully monitor side effects to find the most effective dose for each person.
The first type is a stimulant like lisdexamfetamine and methylphenidate. Atomoxetine is also known as Strattera, is also approved to treat ADHD. However it functions differently and takes a longer time to begin working.
Stimulants
In the UK the UK, stimulants are a treatment option for ADHD. They work by altering the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain to increase concentration, reduce impulsivity and decrease hyperactivity. Psychiatrists carefully adjust medications to determine the best level of balance for each patient. There are a myriad of stimulant types, including amphetamines (such as Ritalin) and methylphenidates. Non-stimulants are also used. They include atomoxetine and dexamfetamine however a new study suggests that these substances may have less of an impact than amphetamines or methylphenidate.
The use of medications is a crucial aspect of treatment. Most people who take medication are taking it to complement psychological interventions. Psychotherapy can help a person develop healthy coping strategies and help reduce negative behaviour patterns. Some people choose to not take any medication. They are not an all-encompassing solution. In the UK the UK, talk therapy is a recommended first line treatment for adults with ADHD and is usually provided along with medication.
Since the Covid pandemic began in 2005, the number of people prescribed ADHD medication has doubled. adhd treatment medication is now more than the number of children. This is due in part to those whose symptoms had previously been ignored or not diagnosed but it is also possible that recent health resource restrictions especially in relation to psychotherapy, have prompted certain patients to receive medical treatment prior to when they could have been evaluated.
On the NHS there are five central nervous systems (CNS) and ADHD medicines which include amphetamines and methylphenidate being the most commonly prescribed. They are usually prescribed as tablets with a short-acting duration that last for a couple of hours or as a tablet with a slow release that is taken daily (also known as modified or immediate release). A recent study has suggested that amphetamines like lisdexamfetamine should be the most preferred medication to treat adult ADHD. The medication is cost-effective, effective and has a low risk of serious side negative effects.
It is not uncommon to see stigmatization in the neurodiversity community, despite the advantages. This can be reflected in unhelpful notions that divide those with ADHD into 'good' people who do not take medication and manage their symptoms without it and 'bad' individuals who depend on medication for relief. This can be a barrier for those who seek help, and can make it more difficult to find assistance and services.
There are risks with all medications. However the evidence suggests the use ADHD medications as a part of treatment for ADHD. The risk of serious side effects is very low, and they can be reduced further by following a careful adjustment process, ensuring that the medication is of the correct strength for them and checking for side effects regularly in the beginning of treatment. In addition, environmental modifications can help reduce the effects of ADHD. These include arranging seating, making sure the environment is quiet, free of distractions, scheduling breaks using the use of a timer, optimizing the learning process or working for shorter periods of concentration, moving between activities, and employing teachers when it is feasible.
