ADHD Medication - A Guide to Prescription and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help manage symptoms of impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention. There are two types of medications - stimulants and non-stimulants.
In Europe and the UK, stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medications prescribed. They include methylphenidate (including Ritalin), and amphetamines salts.
Doctors should not increase their prescriptions during the interruption of supply. GPs are also encouraged to consider alternative bio-equivalent products.
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In the treatment of ADHD there are two medications approved for use in the UK including stimulants and non-stimulants. Since they are the most established, stimulant meds are usually prescribed first. They work by increasing the brain's activity and releasing chemicals that help control attention and act. They include methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine based medication such as lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). Stimulants can come in either long or short acting formulations and are also referred to as immediate release and modified release, respectively.
Atomoxetine, also referred to as Strattera, is a non-stimulant drug that was recently approved to treat ADHD. This medication can help with working memory and concentration issues. It has already been proven to significantly improve symptoms for adults.
Certain people are more interested in alternative or natural treatments than prescription drugs. There are many things that can be done to combat this, from coaching and psychoeducation to self-help strategies and peer support groups. These are often paired with oral medications to maximize the effects.
It is crucial to always consult your GP prior to beginning any supplement or alternative treatment. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency states that it is against the law for any product to claim to treat ADHD when it hasn't been properly authorised.
The best method to start the process of getting an ADHD diagnosis is to locate a psychiatrist in your region who specializes in mental health and has experience of diagnosing adults with ADHD. The psychiatrist will be able to give you a diagnosis that you can use for insurance purposes or if you need proof of your condition for any other reason.
Once you've been diagnosed your psychiatrist will be able to refer you for a medicated test of the medications that are licensed in the UK. A medical professional, such as a psychiatrist nurse is responsible for overseeing the trial. This process is called titration. It will involve the medication being adjusted frequently until the right dosage is found that reduces your symptoms whilst remaining tolerable.
During this period, it is important to maintain an open line of communication with your psychiatrist. It is also important to be made clear that at any time, you can decide to end the trial. Sadly, some neurodiverse communities may have moralistic interpretations that are not helpful of the use of medication for ADHD. This can lead to people being divided into "good people" who do not want medications and 'bad' people who require it to manage their symptoms.
Taking ADHD medication is a choice that is entirely yours and nobody should be forced to take it. Talk therapy can be an extremely effective treatment for adults with ADHD and should be the primary treatment option however it is not a cure and will only manage your symptoms and not change any longstanding negative ways of coping. Medication is a successful and safe option for a lot of people with ADHD. If adhd and anxiety medication choose to take meds, they will only ever be prescribed by a psychiatrist and the decision should be based on your own requirements.