ADHD Medication - A Guide to Prescription and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help to control hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. There are two kinds of medications: stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD medication in Europe and the UK. They comprise the methylphenidate family of drugs (including Ritalin) and the amphetamine salts.
GPs are advised to maintain the prescribed amount for 28 days and not increase quantities during the supply disruption. GPs are also advised to look at alternative products with bio-equivalents.
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In the UK the UK, stimulants and nonstimulants are both deemed acceptable to treat ADHD. These medications are used to increase the activity of brain chemicals that help control attention and take action, are generally offered first, as they are the most well-established. This includes methylphenidate, known as Ritalin as well as amphetamine-based drugs like lisdexamfetamine and Elvanse. Stimulants are available in either long or short acting formulations and are also referred to as immediate release and modified release respectively.
Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera, is a non-stimulant medicine that was recently approved to treat ADHD. This can aid in reducing working memory and concentration issues. It has already been proven to significantly improve symptoms in adults.
Certain people prefer alternative or natural treatment options than drugs. There are adhd and medication to assist people in overcoming this issue, such as psychoeducation, coaching, self-help strategies, and peer support groups. These are often combined with oral medication to maximize the effects.
It is crucial to remember that the use of supplements and alternative treatments should always be discussed with a GP before starting. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency states that it is illegal for any product to claim to treat ADHD when it hasn't been properly authorised.
The best method to begin the process of obtaining an ADHD diagnosis is to find a psychiatrist in your region who specializes in mental health and has experience of diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. The psychiatrist can give you an official diagnosis that you can use for insurance purposes or if you require to prove your condition in another way.
If you are diagnosed that your psychiatrist has confirmed, they can recommend a medical trial of the drugs that are licensed in the UK. A medical professional, such as a psychiatrist nurse, will oversee the trial. This process, called titration, is the process of changing your medication at regular intervals to find the right dosage that minimizes your symptoms but is still acceptable.
During this period, it is important to keep an open line of communication with your psychiatrist. It should also be made clear that at any point you can decide to end the trial. Sadly, some neurodiverse communities might have moralistic interpretations that are unhelpful of the need for medication for ADHD. This could result in people being divided into 'good' people who don't take medications and 'bad' people who need medication to manage their symptoms.
It's never an ideal idea to oblige anyone to take ADHD medication. Talk therapy can be an extremely effective treatment for adult ADHD and should always be the main method of treatment however, it isn't a cure and will only help you manage your symptoms and not change any longstanding negative coping mechanisms. Medication is an effective and safe option for a lot of people with ADHD. If you decide to use medication, it will only ever be prescribed by a psychiatrist and the choice should be based on your individual needs.