ADHD Medication - A Guide to Prescription and Non Prescription ADHD Medication
ADHD medication can help control symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. There are two kinds of medications: stimulants and non-stimulants.
In Europe and the UK stimulants are the most commonly used ADHD medication prescribed. These include methylphenidate (including Ritalin), and amphetamines salts.
Doctors should not increase their prescriptions during the interruption of supply. GPs are advised to consider alternative bioequivalent products.
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In click through the next article , stimulants and nonstimulants are both approved for the treatment of ADHD. These medications that work by enhancing the activities of the brain chemicals that help control attention and take action, are typically given first, since they are the most well-established. These include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine-based medication such as the lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). Stimulants can come in long or short-acting formulations that are referred to as immediate release and modified release.
Atomoxetine, which is also known as Strattera is a non-stimulant medicine that was recently approved for treating ADHD. This medication improves concentration and working memory problems and has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms among adults.
However, there are some people who aren't enthusiastic about taking a drug and would prefer alternative or natural treatments. Fortunately, there are many ways to address this such as psychoeducation and coaching to self-help strategies and peer support groups. These are often combined with oral medication to maximize the effects.
It is essential to always consult your GP prior to beginning any supplement or alternative treatment. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency declares that it is unlawful for any product to claim to treat ADHD if it has not been authorized in a proper manner.
Find a psychiatrist who is specialized in mental health in your area and has the experience of diagnosing adults suffering from ADHD. The psychiatrist will be able to provide you with a formal diagnosis that you can use for insurance purposes or if you require to prove your condition in any other way.
Once you have a diagnosis, your psychiatrist can refer you for a medicated trial of the drugs that are approved in the UK. A clinical professional, like psychiatrist nurses, will oversee the trial. This process, known as titration, involves changing your medication regularly to determine the appropriate dosage that minimizes your symptoms while remaining acceptable.
During this time, it is important to keep a clear line of communication with your psychiatrist. It must also be made clear that at any point you can choose to stop the trial. Unfortunately, some neurodiverse groups can be moralistic about the use of medication for ADHD. This can split people into 'good' individuals who do not take medication and 'bad' individuals who require them to manage their symptoms.
Taking ADHD medication is always a personal choice and nobody should be forced to make that choice. Talk therapy can be an extremely effective treatment for adult ADHD and should always be the first method of treatment however, it isn't a cure and will only treat your symptoms and not alter any longstanding negative ways of coping. Medication is an effective and safe option for a lot of people suffering from ADHD. If you decide to use medication, it should be prescribed by a doctor and should be based solely on your needs.