ADHD Medication - A Guide to Prescription and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help manage hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. There are two kinds of medications - stimulants and non-stimulants.
In Europe and the UK In the UK and Europe, stimulants are among the most frequently used ADHD drugs prescribed. They comprise the methylphenidate family of drugs (including Ritalin) and the amphetamine salts.
GPs are advised to keep the 28-day prescribing period and not increase quantities during the supply disruption. GPs are encouraged to also look at alternative bioequivalent products.
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In the UK both stimulants and nonstimulants are both deemed acceptable for treating ADHD. As they are the most well-known, stimulant meds are usually prescribed first. They increase the activity of brain chemicals that control attention and act. These include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine based medication like Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). non prescription adhd medication are available in both short-acting as well as long-acting versions. They are also referred to as immediate release or modified release.
Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera is a non-stimulant medication recently approved to treat ADHD. This medication can improve concentration and working memory problems and has been proven to significantly reduce symptoms among adults.
Some people prefer alternative or natural treatment options than drugs. There are many things that can be done to tackle this issue including psychoeducation and coaching to self-help strategies and peer support groups. These are often paired with oral medication to maximize the effects.
It is essential to always consult your GP prior to beginning any alternative treatment or supplement. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency states that it is unlawful for any product to claim to treat ADHD in the absence of having been authorized in a proper manner.
Find a psychiatrist who is specialized in mental health within your area and has experience diagnosing adults with ADHD. The psychiatrist will be able to provide you a diagnosis that can be used to cover insurance costs or if you require proof of your condition for any other reason.
After being diagnosed, your psychiatrist can recommend a licensed UK medication for a trial. The trial will be overseen by a clinical professional like a psychiatric nurse. This process, referred to as titration, involves changing your medication regularly to determine the appropriate dosage that reduces the symptoms, while still being acceptable.
During this period, open communication with your psychiatrist is crucial and it should be made clear that you can opt to stop the trial at any time. Unfortunately, certain communities of neurodiversity may have moralistic interpretations that are not helpful of the use of medication for ADHD. This could result in people being divided into "good people" who don't want medication and 'bad people' who require them to manage their symptoms.
Taking ADHD medication is a choice that is entirely yours and no one should be forced to do so. Talk therapy is a very effective treatment option for adults suffering from ADHD. It should be the first line of treatment. However, it does not cure ADHD. It only manages symptoms, and does not alter negative coping mechanisms. Medication is a successful and safe option for a lot of people with ADHD. If you decide to use medication, it will only be prescribed by a doctor and should be based on your requirements.