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People with ADHD are usually prescribed medication as their first choice. They increase activity in the parts of the brain responsible for attention and impulses.
Stimulants like methylphenidate (Ritalin) and Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse) are available for teenagers, adults and children over 5. The tablets are available as immediate-release or modified-release tablets every day.
Stimulants
Since the first diagnosis of ADHD in 1980 there has been an array of ADHD medications available. In the UK there are two types of medications: stimulants as well as non-stimulants. Both increase neurotransmitters to alleviate symptoms. Other medications are used to treat disorders that are often associated with ADHD, like narcolepsy or depression.
Stimulants have been used for ADHD for centuries. They boost the activity of the regions of the brain that regulate attention and action, and they can be long or short acting (also known as immediate or modified release). The most commonly prescribed stimulant to treat ADHD is Ritalin, which belongs to the methylphenidate class. They can be taken orally and can be fast acting or take some time to reach maximum effects.
Non-stimulants are more recently developed but they are equally effective. They all work in a different way however, they've all been proven to decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity and improve inattention symptoms. They also have fewer negative side negative effects. This is important for people who want to study or work while taking treatment.
In the past few years the number of females receiving ADHD medication has risen. This is partly because more girls are being diagnosed at schools, but due to changes in how the condition is evaluated and treated by psychiatrists.
A very small number of people with ADHD may experience psychotic symptoms. However, if it is not treated, ADHD can have a significant negative impact on both mental and physical health. It is essential to identify and treat ADHD as quickly as is possible.
There are a variety of ways to treat ADHD that include cognitive treatment for behavioural disorders (CBT) as well as diet, exercise, and supplements. There is no evidence that these treatments work for everyone who has the disorder. They should never be used without medical advice. Particularly, any changes to your diet such as cutting out foods should only be done under the supervision of a doctor.
Only licensed medications that are regulated by UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Authority can be referred to as a "ADHD medication UK" for adults. Only psychiatrists with specialized training can prescribe these medications. They will carefully adjust the dosage for the individual patient. The psychiatrist will also observe the patient regularly to ensure that the medication is effective and not having unwanted side-effects. This is why it's important to select a private psychiatrist when you are seeking treatment for ADHD. They have a wealth of knowledge of this field and can provide the best possible care. Contact us for a free consultation. If you are interested in knowing more about the treatment options available for ADHD, we can arrange a meeting with one of our psychiatrists. The consultation can be conducted via the internet and is completely confidential.