ADHD Medication - A Guide to Prescription and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help to manage symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. There are two types of medications - stimulants and non-stimulants.
In Europe and in the UK In the UK and Europe, stimulants are among the most common ADHD medication prescribed. They include methylphenidate (including Ritalin), and amphetamines salts.
GPs should not increase their prescriptions during the disruption of supply. GPs are also advised to consider alternative bio-equivalent products.
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When it comes to the treatment of ADHD there are two drugs that are approved to be used in the UK which are stimulants and non-stimulants. These medications, which work by increasing the activity of brain chemicals which help control attention and take action, are usually offered first, as they are the most established. This includes methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin as well as amphetamine-based drugs such as lisdexamfetamine, or Elvanse. The stimulants are available in short-acting and long-acting forms. These are also known as immediate release or modified release.
A non-stimulant medication that was recently approved to treat ADHD is Atomoxetine (Strattera). This medication can improve concentration and working memory problems and has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms among adults.
However, there are people who aren't keen on taking a drug and prefer alternative or natural treatments. There are many options to help them overcome this issue, such as psychoeducation, coaching, self-help strategies and peer support groups. These are often combined with oral medications to maximize the effects.
It is essential to always consult your GP before beginning any other treatment or supplement. 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 authorized in a proper manner.
Find a psychiatrist who specializes in mental health in your area and has the experience of diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. The psychiatrist will be able to provide you a diagnosis that you can use for insurance purposes or if you require evidence of your condition for any other reason.
If adhd sleep medication are diagnosed, your psychiatrist can suggest a medical trial of the medications that are licensed in the UK. The trial will be overseen by a professional in clinical practice such as a psychiatric nurse. This process is called titration and will involve your medication being changed at regular intervals until the proper dosage is determined that minimizes your symptoms whilst remaining acceptable.
In this time, it is important to keep a clear communication with your psychiatrist. It should also be clear that at any time, you can decide to end the trial. Unfortunately, certain communities of neurodiversity may have moralistic interpretations that are not helpful of the use of medication for ADHD. This can lead to people being divided into 'good people' who reject the use of medication, and 'bad people' who require it to manage their symptoms.
It's never an ideal idea to force anyone to take ADHD medication. Talk therapy is an effective treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD. It should be the first step in treatment. However, it can not cure ADHD. It only manages symptoms, and does not alter negative ways of coping. However medication is a safe and effective choice for the majority of people with ADHD. If you decide to take medication, it should be prescribed by a physician and should be based solely on your requirements.
