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 types of ADHD medications: stimulants and non-stimulants.
In Europe and the UK, stimulants are the most common ADHD medications prescribed. They include the methylphenidate family of drugs (including Ritalin) and the amphetamine salts.
GPs should not increase their prescriptions during the interruption in supply. GPs are advised to think about alternative products that are bioequivalent to the one they currently prescribe.
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In the treatment of ADHD, there are two medications that are approved to be used in the UK including stimulants and non-stimulants. Because they are the most established, stimulant meds are usually prescribed first. They increase the activity in brain chemicals that help control attention and act. This includes methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, and amphetamine-based medications like lisdexamfetamine or Elvanse. Stimulants are available both in short-acting and long-acting forms. They are also referred to as immediate release or modified release.
A non-stimulant medicine that was recently approved to treat ADHD is atomoxetine (Strattera). This medication improves working memory and concentration and has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms in adults.
Some people prefer natural or alternative treatment than prescription drugs. There are a variety of options to help them overcome this issue, such as psychoeducation and self-help techniques, coaching and peer support groups. They are often combined to enhance the effect of oral medications.
adhd medications is important to note that the use of supplements and alternative treatments should be discussed with a GP prior to beginning. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency states that it is unlawful to market any product that claims to treat ADHD without being properly authorised.
Find a psychiatrist who specializes in mental health in your area and has experience diagnosing adults with ADHD. The doctor can provide you with a a formal diagnosis that you can use for insurance purposes or if you require to prove your condition in any other way.
If you are diagnosed your psychiatrist can suggest a medical test of the medications that are licensed in the UK. This will be overseen by a professional in clinical practice such as a psychiatric nursing professional. This process, called titration, is the process of changing your medication on a regular basis to find the right dosage that minimizes the symptoms, while still being comfortable.
During this time, open communication with your psychiatrist is vital and it must be made clear that you can opt to end the trial at any point. However, certain neurodiversity groups can have a moralistic view of the need for medication for ADHD. This could result in people being divided into 'good' people who don't take medications and 'bad' individuals who require them to manage their symptoms.
It's never a good idea 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 and does not change negative ways of coping. Medication is an effective and safe option for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. If you decide to use meds, they will only ever be prescribed by a psychiatrist and the decision should be based on your individual needs.