What's The Current Job Market For ADHD Medication For Adults UK Professionals?
ADHD Medication For Adults UK
Celebrities such as Jonny Vegas and Sue Perkins have publicly shared their ADHD diagnosis, bringing awareness about the condition. The NHS is struggling to cope with demand, with long lines for diagnosis and a taskforce set up to improve services.
The most effective treatment is stimulant drugs, which increase levels of certain chemicals in the brain to reduce inattention and excessive activity. They are not an effective treatment.
Stimulants
The good news is that the treatment for ADHD has progressed a lot since it first became an option for treatment in the 1980s. The UK has a much better range of medications than Europe or America. The most popular stimulant is methylphenidate (often called Ritalin) available in extended-release and short-release tablets. It increases dopamine levels in your brain. This reduces impulsivity, and helps you to pay attention. It can also reduce hyperactivity and increase motivation. There are other stimulants that aren't methylphenidate. People with Tourette's Disorder are prescribed Clonidine (brand name Tenex), or guanfacine. Guanfacine is less susceptible to side effects than clonidine and could reduce both tics as well as impulsivity.
Amphetamines are the next class of drugs that are typically prescribed for ADHD. They are more potent than methylphenidate however they may cause more adverse effects, such as anxiety and insomnia. However, they are effective for some people and are generally thought to be more secure than other stimulants on offer. There are two amphetamines that you might be offered if methylphenidate doesn't work for you - dexamfetamine (brand name Lisdexamfetamine) and lisdexamfetamine/amphetamine hydrochloride (brand name Dexamfetamine).
There is a non-stimulant drug sometimes used in the UK for adults suffering from ADHD, which is Atomoxetine (sometimes known as Strattera). This medication doesn't alter dopamine levels, but it does boost noradrenaline. Noradrenaline is an additional type of messenger molecule that assists in transfer information between different parts of the brain. It can help with concentration and reduce impulses. However, adhd uk medication takes several weeks before the full effects can be felt.
A diagnosis and evaluation of adult ADHD will give you more confidence in managing your symptoms. The first step is to talk to your GP and explain your concerns and ask for a referral to the nearest specialist clinic. GPs will be able help you if they are well-informed about neurodiverse disorders such as ADHD.
It's normal to feel anxious before your first appointment with a psychiatrist. This is especially true if are considering taking medication. You might have watched documentaries like Netflix's "Take Your Pills" or read horror stories that make you question if you'll turn into zombies if you are taking psychiatric drugs. Our psychiatrists are highly experienced in ADHD and will make sure you feel safe and comfortable during the process. They will begin your medication and will then schedule fortnightly or monthly appointments to track your progress and dosage levels, dependent on the service you select. You can visit your GP to continue your treatment.