ADHD Medication Options For Adults UK
There are two types of ADHD treatment which are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants raise and balance levels of the chemicals in the brain which regulate attention and impulsivity.
Treatments for adults suffering from ADHD are controlled substances and can only be prescribed by an experienced ADHD clinician, rather than your GP. They are usually prescribed for a period of six weeks prior to changing or increasing the dosage.
Stimulants
Adults with ADHD are primarily treated with medication. The selection of drugs is a lot more diverse than it was before ADHD was first recognized as a disorder. In the UK as well as other countries in Europe and America, there are a number of different options available to psychiatrists treating ADHD.
They are usually prescribed as the first method of treatment and they enhance the activity of the regions of the brain that control the mood, motivation and attention. They also reduce impulsivity, and boost concentration. They are available in short-acting and long-acting tablets. They are also referred to as immediate release or modified release. They are very effective in treating ADHD symptoms quickly.
The two most common stimulants are methylphenidate, known as Ritalin, and amphetamines salts (Adderall). They can be taken as immediate or extended release tablets, and the type of tablet you take will depend on your preference and the severity of your symptoms. These are 'controlled' drugs, which means that they are only available through prescription and have to be monitored closely.
There are also other medications that are prescribed for adults suffering from ADHD, including guanfacine and Lisdexamfetamine (branded names Vyvanse and Concerta respectively). These drugs affect various parts of the brain to improve focus and attention. They also can lower blood pressure. In general, these are less likely to cause side reactions than the methylphenidate and amphetamine salts, so they may be more suitable for those who have experienced them.
Antidepressants, anti anxiety medication and other medicines are also available. However, they are only recommended when stimulants or another medication has not brought relief. Psychiatrists also typically recommend therapy in conjunction with the use of medication as it is not possible to change longstanding negative coping mechanisms with medication alone.
types of adhd medication is essential to remember that taking medication for ADHD can be an individual choice. No psychiatrist should ever force anyone into it. The medication can cause severe side effects, and a specialist psychiatrist will titrate the doses on an individual basis to ensure that they are safe for each individual. Having the right balance of medication and therapy can significantly enhance your quality of life however, it is vital to consult with an experienced psychiatrist for a precise diagnosis before you start treatment with any medication.
ADHD symptoms must be severe, disruptive and present in multiple aspects of everyday life to warrant referral to a clinic for assessment and diagnosis. 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. Ask for a referral.
TB declares advisory or consulting 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, as well as research collaborations with Medice Otsuka and Novartis.