ADHD Medication For Adults UK
There are two kinds of medications used to treat ADHD which are stimulants and non-stimulants. These medications can help reduce symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention by altering the chemical levels in the brain.
Psychiatrists make sure to adjust the dosage of these drugs for each individual. They also regularly review possible side effects to make sure the dosage is effective.
Stimulants
Stimulants, as their name suggests are a group of drugs that enhance the activity of the central nervous system. They are used to enhance alertness and awareness, wakefulness and motivation, cognition and arousal as well as improve mood and productivity. Stimulants, also known as psychostimulants or highers are commonly found in substances like caffeine, nicotine amphetamines, cocaine, and methylphenidate.
In recent times, methylphenidate is the most popular drug treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. Methylphenidate boosts activity in brain areas involved in controlling behavior and attention. Methylphenidate comes in the form of immediate-release tablets, which must be taken two to three times per day. Or, adhd medication names can be taken as modified-release tablets, which can be taken a few times a day and release a small dose throughout the day.
According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Lisdexamfetamine may be effective in treatment of adult ADHD. However, it may not tolerated similarly. It is therefore recommended by NICE as a second-line drug or as an addition treatment to a combination of other treatments.
Other treatments for adults with ADHD include psychotherapy, which includes cognitive behavioural therapy as well as interpersonal psychotherapy. Psychological treatment has been shown to reduce symptoms of ADHD and improve functioning especially in the workplace. The problem is that a lack funding and service capacity can mean that people with ADHD often do not receive the support they require for their mental health.
A recent study conducted nationally by researchers at the University of Exeter highlights huge differences in access to treatment of ADHD in adults. The results indicate that a significant number of people are not getting the treatment they require because their GP will not refer them to an assessment. This could be because the GP does not believe that the patient has ADHD, or because they believe that the issues are due to a different condition like depression or anxiety.
If you are having trouble getting a referral, you can get an independent assessment through the NHS or private healthcare. Alternately, you could try to find support from a local charity or self-help group. Many of these organizations offer classes for adults suffering from ADHD or offer information and resources to their members. If you have ADHD and are having difficulty at work, you may also be eligible for financial assistance through the Department for Work and Pensions Access to Work Scheme. This could allow you to finance special equipment or workplace adaptations. For more information on this, go to the government's website. It is important to know that not all who utilize these services are successful in submitting for funding. It could take a long time or even several years to secure a spot in the program. Therefore, you should always be patient and persevere in your application. Before you decide to apply, it is worth talking to a specialist. They can provide more details on what you can expect and how to put together a strong application.