ADHD Medication - A Guide to Prescription and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help manage hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. There are two kinds of medications - stimulants and non-stimulants.
In Europe and the UK, stimulants are the most common ADHD medication prescribed. They are a part of the methylphenidate class of drugs (including Ritalin) and the amphetamine salts.
GPs are advised to maintain 28 day prescribing and NOT increase dosages during supply disruption. GPs are also encouraged to look at alternative products with bio-equivalents.
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When it comes to the treatment of ADHD There are two medications that are approved to be used in the UK - stimulants and non-stimulants. As they are the most established medication, stimulants are generally prescribed first. They are used to increase the brain's activity and releasing chemicals that aid in controlling attention and perform. This includes methylphenidate, known as Ritalin, and amphetamine-based medications like lisdexamfetamine and Elvanse. The stimulants are available in short or long acting formulations that are referred to as immediate release and modified release respectively.
Atomoxetine, which is 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 already been proven to significantly reduce symptoms for adults.
However, there are people who aren't enthusiastic about taking a drug and would prefer natural or alternative treatments. T here are many things that can be done to address this, from psychoeducation and coaching to self-help strategies and peer support groups. These are often combined with oral medication to maximise the effects.
It is important that you always consult your GP before starting any alternative treatment or supplement. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency says that it is unlawful to sell any product claiming to treat ADHD without being properly authorised.
The best method to begin the process of obtaining an ADHD diagnosis is to locate a psychiatrist in your area who specialises in mental health and has experience of diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. The psychiatrist can provide you an official diagnosis that you can use to cover insurance costs or if you need proof of your condition for any other reason.
After you've been diagnosed, your psychiatrist can recommend an approved UK medication for a trial. A clinical professional, like psychiatrist nurses, will oversee the trial. This process, known as titration, involves changing your medication at regular intervals to find the right dosage that minimizes your symptoms but is still acceptable.
During this period it is crucial to maintain an open communication with your psychiatrist. It is also important to be made clear that at any point you may decide to stop the trial. However, certain neurodiversity groups can have a moralistic interpretation of the use medication for ADHD. This could result in people being divided into 'good' people who do not take medication and 'bad' individuals who need medications to manage their symptoms.
It's never recommended to force anyone to take ADHD medication. Talk therapy is a very effective treatment option for adults with ADHD. It should be the first step in treatment. However, it can not cure ADHD. It is only a way to manage symptoms but does not alter the negative strategies for coping. Medication is an effective and safe option for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. If you decide to take medication, it should be prescribed by a doctor and should be based on your needs.