adult adhd medication uk For Adults UK
There are two types of medication used to treat ADHD that are stimulants and non-stimulants. These can reduce the symptoms of impulsivity, inattentiveness and hyperactivity by altering brain chemical levels.
Psychiatrists are careful to adjust the dosage of these drugs for each individual. They also look over the effects of these medications regularly to ensure that the dosage is safe.
Stimulants
Like the name suggests stimulants are a broad group of drugs that boost activity in the central nervous system. They are commonly employed to increase alertness and awareness, wakefulness and motivation, cognition and arousal as well in enhancing productivity and mood. Stimulants, also referred to as psychostimulants or highers are commonly found in substances like nicotine, caffeine amphetamines, cocaine and methylphenidate.
Presently, methylphenidate is among the most common drug treatment for adults suffering from ADHD. Methylphenidate boosts activity in brain areas involved in the control of behavior and attention. Methylphenidate comes in immediate-release tablets, which must be taken between 2 and 3 times per day. Or, it can be taken as modified-release tablets that 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 (NICE), the drug lisdexamfetamine has also been proven effective in treating adult ADHD, though it may not be as well tolerated. It is therefore recommended by NICE as a second-line medication or as an additional therapy to a mix of other treatments.
Psychological interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and inter-personal psychotherapy, are effective treatments for adults with ADHD. Psychotherapy has been proven to help reduce symptoms of ADHD and improve functioning especially in the workplace. Unfortunately, lack of funding or service capacity can prevent people with ADHD from receiving the psychological support they require.
A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Exeter highlights huge differences in access to treatment of ADHD in adults. The results indicate that a significant number of people aren't getting the treatment they need due to the fact that their GP will not refer them to an assessment. This can happen because the GP does not think the person has ADHD or because their issues are believed to be caused by a different disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
If you're having trouble getting a referral for an examination, you can attempt to obtain an independent diagnosis through private healthcare or the NHS. Alternately, you could seek out support from local charities or self-help group. Some of these organizations offer workshops for adults with ADHD or provide 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 will help you to pay for special equipment or adjustments to your workplace. Visit the official website of the government for more details. It is important to know that not all who utilize these services are successful in applying for funds. In some cases it may take months or even years before securing an application to the program. Therefore, it is important to be patient and persevere with your application. If you are thinking of applying, it's worth discussing the subject with a professional prior making your decision. They can provide more information about what you can expect and how to put together a strong application.