ADHD Medication - A Guide to Prescription and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help control symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. There are two types of medications - stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed ADHD meds in Europe and the UK. These include methylphenidate (including Ritalin), and amphetamines salts.
GPs are advised to keep the prescribed amount for 28 days and not increase the dosage during the supply disruption. non prescription adhd medication are advised to consider alternative bioequivalent products.
licensed
In the treatment of ADHD, there are two drugs that are licensed to be used in the UK which are stimulants and non-stimulants. Since they are the most established, stimulant meds are usually prescribed first. They work by increasing the activity in brain chemicals that control attention and perform. These include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine-based medication like the lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). The stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting formulations. These are also known as immediate release or modified release.
Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera, is a non-stimulant medicine that was recently approved for treating ADHD. This will help with working memory and concentration issues. It has been proven to significantly improve symptoms for adults.
Certain people prefer natural or alternative treatment than prescription drugs. There are a variety of options to help people overcome this issue, such as psychoeducation and self-help techniques, coaching, and peer support groups. These are often combined to enhance the effect of oral medication.
It is important to note that the use of supplements and alternative treatments should always be discussed with a GP prior to beginning. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency declares that it is unlawful for any product to claim to treat ADHD if it has not been properly authorized.
The best way to begin the process of getting an ADHD diagnosis is to locate a psychiatrist in your region who is specialized in mental health and has experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD. The psychiatrist will be able to give you an official diagnosis that you can use for insurance purposes or should you require proof of your condition for any other reason.
Once you have a diagnosis your psychiatrist will be able to recommend a medical trial of the drugs that are licensed in the UK. This will be overseen by a clinical professional like a psychiatric nurse. This process, referred to as titration, involves changing your medication on a regular basis to find the right dosage that minimizes the symptoms, while still being comfortable.
During this time it is essential to maintain an open line of communication with your psychiatrist. It must also be clear that at any point you may decide to stop the trial. Unfortunately, certain neurodiversity groups may have a moralistic view of the need for medication for ADHD. This can lead to people being divided into "good people" who do not want medications and 'bad' people who require them to manage their symptoms.
It's not recommended to make anyone take ADHD medication. Talk therapy is a very effective treatment option for adults with ADHD. It should be the first option for treatment. However, it will not cure ADHD. It only helps manage symptoms and does not change negative strategies for coping. Medication is an effective and safe choice for a large number of people suffering from ADHD. If you decide to take medication, it will only ever be prescribed by a psychiatrist, and the choice should be based on your individual requirements.