ADHD Medication - A Guide to Prescription and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help manage symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention. There are two groups of medications: stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD meds 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 dosages during interruption in supply. GPs are also encouraged to think about alternative products that are bioequivalent to the one they currently prescribe.
Licenseed
In the treatment of ADHD, there are two medications licensed to be used in the UK including stimulants and non-stimulants. As they are the most well-known, stimulant meds are usually prescribed first. They increase the brain's activity and releasing chemicals that aid in controlling attention and act. This includes methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, and amphetamine-based medications like lisdexamfetamine or Elvanse. Stimulants are available in either long or short acting formulations and are also referred to as immediate release and modified release.
Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera is a non-stimulant drug that was recently approved for treating ADHD. This medication will improve working memory and concentration and has been proven to significantly reduce symptoms in adults.
Certain people are more interested in alternative or natural treatments than drugs. Fortunately, there are many options to tackle this issue, from coaching and psychoeducation to self-help strategies and peer support groups. These are often combined with oral medications to maximize the effects.
It is vital to remember that the supplementation and alternative treatments should always be discussed with an GP prior to starting. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency states that it is against the law for any product to claim to treat ADHD if it has not been properly authorized.
Find a psychiatrist that specializes in mental health in your area and has the experience of diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. The psychiatrist can give you a formal diagnosis that you can use to prove your insurance eligibility or if you require to prove your condition in another way.
Once you've been diagnosed that your psychiatrist has confirmed, they will be able to refer you for a medicated test of the medications that are licensed in the UK. adhd medication and pregnancy , such as psychiatrist nurses is responsible for overseeing the trial. This process is known as titration. It involves changing your medication regularly until the correct dosage is found that reduces your symptoms, while still being acceptable.
During this period it is crucial to keep a clear line of communication with your psychiatrist. It must also be made clear that at any time you can choose to stop the trial. Unfortunately, certain neurodiversity groups can have a moralistic view of the need for medication for ADHD. This can lead to people being divided into "good people" who don't want medications and 'bad' people who require them to manage their symptoms.
Making use of ADHD medication is a choice that is entirely yours and nobody should be forced to do so. Talk therapy is a very effective treatment for adults with ADHD and should always be the main line of treatment however it is not an answer to the problem and can only help you manage your symptoms and not change the long-standing negative coping mechanisms. However medication is a safe and effective option for the majority of people suffering from ADHD. If you decide to take medication, it will only be prescribed by a doctor and should be based on your requirements.
