ADHD Medication - A Guide to Prescription and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help manage symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. There are two kinds of drugs - stimulants and non-stimulants.
Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications in Europe and the UK. These include the methylphenidate (including Ritalin), and amphetamines salts.
Doctors are advised to continue the prescribed amount for 28 days and not increase quantities during the interruption in supply. GPs are encouraged to also consider alternative bioequivalent products.
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In the UK the UK, stimulants and nonstimulants are both deemed acceptable for treating ADHD. As they are the most well-known medications, stimulants are typically prescribed first. They are used to increase the activity of brain chemicals that aid in controlling attention and act. This includes methylphenidate which is known as Ritalin, and amphetamine-based medications like lisdexamfetamine and Elvanse. Stimulants can come in short or long acting formulations, also known as immediate release and modified release, respectively.
Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera, is a non-stimulant medicine that was recently approved for treating ADHD. This medication improves concentration and working memory problems and has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms among adults.
However, there are some people who are not interested in taking a medication and would prefer alternative or natural treatments. There are many ways to assist people in overcoming this issue, including psychoeducation, coaching, self-help strategies and peer support groups. They are often combined to enhance the effect of oral medication.
It is crucial to always consult your GP before beginning any alternative treatment or supplement. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency declares that it is illegal to market any product claiming to treat ADHD without a valid authorization.
The best way to begin the process of obtaining an ADHD diagnosis is to locate an area psychiatrist who is specialized in mental health and has experience of diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. The doctor can provide you with a a formal diagnosis that you can use to prove your insurance eligibility, or if you need to prove your condition in any other way.
If you are diagnosed your psychiatrist can suggest a medical trial of the medications that are approved in the UK. A clinical professional, like a psychiatrist nurse is responsible for overseeing the trial. This process, called titration, involves changing your medication on a regular basis to find the right dosage that minimizes the symptoms, while still being acceptable.
During this time, open communication with your psychiatrist is crucial and it must be stated that you can opt to stop the study at any point. Sadly, some neurodiverse communities might have moralistic interpretations that are unhelpful of the use of medication for ADHD. This can lead to people being divided into "good people" who don't want medication and 'bad people' who need them to control their symptoms.
The decision to take ADHD medication is a choice that is entirely yours and no one should be forced to take it. Talk therapy is an extremely effective treatment for adult ADHD and should always be the first method of treatment, but it is not an answer to the problem and can only treat your symptoms, but not alter any longstanding negative coping mechanisms. However medication is a reliable and safe choice for the majority of people with ADHD. If how to get adhd medication uk decide to take medication, it will only ever be prescribed by a psychiatrist and the choice should be based on your personal needs.