How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
The supply of ADHD medications is sporadic and it can sometimes be difficult to get prescriptions due to a shortage. This affects all pharmacies and doctors.
You should access your evaluation via the 'Right to Choose route if you wish to avoid long waits. Your local mental health clinic will need the details of the most recent 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 allow the brain communicate) in the brain. They are highly effective and can help with the numerous challenges that come with living with ADHD. However, like all medications, they can cause negative side effects. Therefore, open communication is important with your GP regarding how you're feeling and any changes in treatment that might be required.
Stimulant medications are best utilized by adults, however it is also used by children and adolescents. There are a myriad of stimulant drugs available. The most common ones include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) amphetamine salts and dexamfetamine (Dexamethasone). There is also atomoxetine or Prozac but it's only approuvé for children over the age of eight.
They are usually started at low dosages and gradually increased over a few days. This is called titration, and it permits you to adjust your dosage as you become aware of the effects of the medication on your adult or child. The psychiatrist will look at the side effects that are observed and assist you in finding a dose that works well for you, while minimizing side effects.
It can take some time to determine the right dosage of stimulant ADHD medication but it is crucial to remain on track as long-term use is required. Making regular appointments with your GP and keeping in constant contact with any side effects will ensure that the right balance is achieved.
At present, only psychiatrists are able adjust ADHD medications. However, this could change. In the interim, GPs have been advised not to prescribe stimulant medication to new patients until the shortage has ended.
add adhd medications can contribute to the fight for a better diagnosis and access to medications by writing to your GP asking them to refer you to an assessment. You can print and download the letter of support from ADHD UK to give to your GP.
The majority of pharmacies sell stimulants, which are commonly prescribed psychiatric drugs. They are prescribed as tablets and can be taken as an immediate-release or extended-release drug. Extended-release medications are taken once a day, in the morning. They can last for up to eight hours. Many people add an immediate-release medication during the mid to late afternoon to ensure they have a consistent supply of their medication throughout the day.
It is difficult to back the notion that ADHD medication is over-medicalised and that children are "pumped up" to control their behaviour and improve their performance in school. There are believed to be 2.6 million adults and children with the condition in the UK but only around 200 people are taking medication. adhd medications for adults is likely to rise as the stigma associated with the condition fades and more people are referred for an ADHD assessment.