ADHD Medication For Adults UK
The use of medication can reduce symptoms and make tasks easier. They can also aid in addressing the root causes of depression, insomnia, and anxiety.
Stimulants (methylphenidate and the amphetamine-based medication lisdexamfetamine) are the first line treatment for adults with ADHD. They increase levels of two chemical messengers in the brain that improve focus and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of neurotransmitters inside the brain. This allows it to function more efficiently. They improve concentration and reduce impulsive behaviour. Most people who have ADHD use stimulants to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. These medications are classified as controlled substances due to the potential for addiction. A specialist psychiatrist will adjust the dosage of the medication, to ensure that the proper balance is struck between effectiveness and side effects.
A major study that was published in 2023 reveals that prescriptions for ADHD medication in England have increased year on year. It is thought that this is due in part to the increased awareness of the condition and also shorter time to be assessed at NHS GP practices and improved procedures for referring adults to ADHD services.
ADHD is a condition that is difficult to manage at work, school or at home. Many adults suffering from ADHD report difficulty getting the help and treatment they need even after being diagnosed. This is due in part to the fact that adults' ADHD services aren't always integrated with children and adolescents' mental health services.
The symptoms of ADHD are subtle and differ from person-to-person. People with ADHD may develop strategies to hide their issues, such as not submitting homework or using technology as a distraction. her explanation may be diagnosed with other conditions such as anxiety or depression that can mask the presence of underlying ADHD. Doctors should always be aware of the possibility that ADHD is present when they evaluate individuals for these other conditions.
Recent restrictions on health resources specifically that involving psychological interventions, have resulted in an increase the number of adults being treated with pharmacological treatments for ADHD. A recent network meta-analysis (a type of medical review) shows that amphetamines - including methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine - are the most effective drug treatments for ADHD. This is the largest network meta-analysis to date, and adds more evidence to the NICE guidelines.
Other methods for treating ADHD, in addition to medications, include environment and educational modifications. These methods are designed to lessen the impact of ADHD on everyday functioning. They include adjusting seating arrangements in workplaces and schools, offering breaks in movement, such as 'I Need a Break' cards, optimising studying and working in order to allow shorter time periods, more frequent movement, and revising verbal requests.
No matter if the patient is taking medication, it's vital that GPs refer patients with suspected ADHD to a seasoned clinical psychiatrist or psychologist to be assessed and treated. Patients could be misdiagnosed or delayed, which could have grave consequences. It may result in people not receiving treatment throughout the duration of their illness or being diagnosed with untreated ADHD as adults. It can also mean that the underlying reason for unmanageable ADHD issues isn't addressed. For instance an ineffective interpersonal skill or lack self-reflection. This can adversely affect the person's mental and physical health in the long term.