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 types of ADHD medications: stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed ADHD meds in Europe and the UK. resource for this article include the methylphenidate family of drugs (including Ritalin) and the amphetamine salts.
GPs are advised to keep the prescribed amount for 28 days and not increase quantities during the interruption in supply. GPs are also encouraged to look at alternative bioequivalent products.
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When it comes to the treatment of ADHD, there are two drugs that are approved for use in the UK - stimulants and non-stimulants. The stimulant medications, which work by increasing the activity of brain chemicals which help control attention and take action, are usually initially offered, since they are the most established. This includes methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin and amphetamine-based medicines such as lisdexamfetamine, or Elvanse. Stimulants can come in either long or short acting formulations, also known as immediate release and modified release respectively.
A non-stimulant medicine that has recently been approved to treat ADHD is atomoxetine (Strattera). This medication can improve working memory and concentration and has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms in adults.
Some people prefer alternative or natural treatment options than prescription drugs. Fortunately, there are a number of 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 important to note that the use of supplements and other treatments should be discussed with a GP prior to starting. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency declares that it is against the law for any product to claim to treat ADHD when it hasn't been properly authorized.
The best method to begin the process of getting an ADHD diagnosis is to find a psychiatrist in your area who specialises in mental health and has experience diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. The doctor can provide you with a an official diagnosis that you can use to prove your insurance eligibility or if you require to prove your condition in any other way.
Once you've been diagnosed, your psychiatrist may recommend a licensed UK medication to try. The trial will be overseen by a medical professional such as a psychiatric nurse. This is known as titration. It will involve the medication being adjusted regularly until the correct dosage is found that reduces your symptoms whilst remaining acceptable.
During this period, open communication with your psychiatrist is crucial and it must be stated that you are able to stop the study at any point. Unfortunately, some neurodiverse groups may have a moralistic interpretation of the need for medication for ADHD. This can divide people into "good people" who don't want medication and 'bad people' who require it to manage their symptoms.
Making use of ADHD medication is always a personal choice and nobody should be compelled to do so. Talk therapy is a very efficient treatment for adults suffering from ADHD and should always be the first line of treatment however, it isn't a cure and will only help you manage your symptoms and not alter any longstanding negative ways of coping. Medication is an effective and safe option for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. If you decide to take medication, it must be prescribed by a medical professional and should be based on your needs.
