How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
The availability of ADHD medication is variable and it may be difficult to get prescriptions due to a shortage. This affects all pharmacies and doctors.
You should seek your assessment via the 'Right of Choice option if you wish to avoid long wait times. Your local mental health clinic will require details of an upcoming specialist ADHD review before prescribing.
Stimulants
In the UK, stimulants are the most frequently prescribed drugs to treat ADHD. They help by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters (chemicals that enable brain cells to communicate) in the brain. They are highly efficient and can aid in overcoming the numerous challenges associated with ADHD. However, like all medications, they may have side effects so open communication with your GP about how you are feeling and any changes to treatment that might be required.
Stimulant medications are best suited for adults, but can also be utilized by adolescents and children. There are many different stimulant medications available. The most popular include the methylphenidate (Ritalin), amphetamine salts and dexamfetamine (Dexamethasone). There is also an atomoxetine (Prozac) but this is only approved for use in children aged 8 and up.
They are usually introduced with low doses and increased gradually over a few weeks. This is known as titration. It allows for adjustments to be made as you begin to understand the effects of the medication on your child or adult. The psychiatrist will consult with you and look at any adverse effects you might be experiencing to determine a dose that is appropriate for you while minimizing side effects.
It could take a while to determine the proper dosage of stimulant ADHD medication but it is crucial to keep on track since long-term use is required. Regular visits with your GP can assist you in finding the right balance.
Currently adhd otc medication of ADHD medications is only undertaken by specialist psychiatrists, although this could change. In the meantime, doctors are advised not to start new patients on any stimulant medication until the shortage is over.
You can support the fight for a more accurate diagnosis and better access to medications by asking your GP to refer you to an assessment of your medical condition. You can download and print the support letter from ADHD UK that you can present to your GP.
Stimulants are among the most commonly utilized psychiatric medication and are available at most pharmacies. They are prescribed as tablets and can be taken as an immediate-release or extended-release drug. Extended-release medicines are prescribed each morning in the morning and can last for up to eight hours. Many people will supplement their extended-release medication with an immediate-release medication in the mid to late afternoon to ensure that they have a constant supply of their medication throughout the day.
It is difficult to support the notion that ADHD medication is not enough, and that children are "pumped up" to manage their behavior and improve their grades at school. In the UK there are 2.6 million adults and kids suffering from the condition. However only 200,000 of them are on medication. This number is likely to increase as the stigma surrounding ADHD is gradually fading, and more people are referred to an ADHD assessment.