14 Questions You Shouldn't Be Anxious To Ask ADHD Medication For Adults UK

adhd and medication For Adults UK NHS figures reveal that the amount of adults who receive ADHD medication has increased by three times in recent years. But this is still just a small percentage of people diagnosed with the disorder. Stimulants boost brain activity by boosting levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline that convey messages between nerves. They also boost blood flow to the brain cells. Stimulants If you suffer from ADHD as an adult you may need medication. In the UK, this is the most common first treatment. However, talk therapy (psychotherapy), is also highly recommended. Talk therapy can aid you and your family members understand your behavior and challenges and help you develop healthy coping strategies. Stimulants alter the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain – namely dopamine and norepinephrine that transmit messages between nerves. This increases concentration and reduces the impulsivity and hyperactivity. There are a variety of stimulant drugs available on the NHS and methylphenidate (Ritalin) or the more recent amphetamine-based medication Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are the most common choices. These medications are quick-acting and generally take between 45 and 60 minutes to start working. Some people aren't a fan of these drugs even though they've been around for a long time. In fact, they can cause increased insomnia and agitation in some people. This is why it's important to discuss any adverse effects with your GP and select a treatment that works for your needs. There are a variety of non-stimulant ADHD medicines that work differently and have less side negative effects. Atomoxetine (Strateva) is one of them. It functions by increasing the levels of the neurotransmitter noradrenaline, that transmits signals between nerves. They are prescribed in cases where stimulants do not work or are too excessive for the patient. They can also be prescribed off label' if they are thought to help with ADHD symptoms in specific individuals, for example, those who suffer from comorbid depression or anxiety. If your GP decides you need to take medication, they will talk about the advantages and disadvantages of taking the medication for a long amount of time with you. They will also explain how it is best to use the medicine and will need to monitor your improvement and dosage levels. This will mean weekly, and then monthly appointments with your psychiatrist. Nice's most recent guide for adults suffering from ADHD suggests medication as the most common treatment. Psychosocial therapies are also available that can help you and your family members cope with your ADHD symptoms, but these are not generally provided by the NHS unless you are receiving them as part of an assessment and management program. It is important to remember that there is no cure or treatment for ADHD. However, the right medication can alleviate your symptoms in a society which doesn't promote neurodiversity. It's ultimately your choice to take ADHD medication and your doctor shouldn't pressure you in one way or the other. Many people choose to pursue therapy and find that it's sufficient to treat their ADHD symptoms. If you do decide to take medication, do so with the guidance of a specialist psychiatrist who knows the benefits and risks. The psychiatrist can assist you and your loved ones create strategies for coping that will help you manage any lingering symptom and prevent future issues.