Are You Getting The Most You ADHD Medication?
How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
It is sometimes difficult to obtain prescriptions for ADHD medication due to shortages. This affects all doctors as well as pharmacies.
You should seek your assessment via the 'Right to Choice option if you wish to avoid lengthy wait times. Before prescribing ADHD medication the local mental health clinic may require a recent ADHD specialist review.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the drugs most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK. They are effective by increasing the quantity of neurotransmitters (chemicals that enable the brain to communicate) in the brain. They are highly efficient and can aid in overcoming the many challenges that arise from living with ADHD. However, like all medications they can have adverse effects, so a clear communication is important with your GP regarding how you're experiencing and any changes to treatment that may be needed.
Stimulant medications are best suited for adults, but can also be used by children and adolescents. They are available in a number of different forms, the most popular being methylphenidate hydrochloride (Ritalin) amphetamine salts, and dexamfetamine dimesylate (Dexamethasone). There is also atomoxetine, or Prozac, but it is only approved for children above the age of eight.
adhd and anxiety medication are usually introduced at low doses and increased gradually over a few weeks. This is known as titration. It allows for adjustments to be made as you come to understand the effects of the medication on your child or adult. The psychiatrist will take into consideration the side effects that are observed and work with you to find a dose that works well for you, while minimizing the risk of side negative effects.
It can take a while to find the appropriate dosage of stimulant ADHD drugs, but it is essential to keep the dosage in check as long term use is necessary. Regular visits to your GP can help you find the right balance.
The current titration process for ADHD medications is only undertaken by specialist psychiatrists, although this could change. In medication for adhd and anxiety , GPs are advised not to start new patients on any stimulant medication until the shortfall is over.
You can help support the fight for an accurate diagnosis and access to treatment 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.
Stimulants are the most widely used psychiatric drugs and can be purchased from the majority of pharmacies. They are usually prescribed as tablets and can be taken either as an immediate-release or extended-release drug. Extended-release medicines are prescribed every morning in the morning and can last for up to eight hours. Many people who take extended release medication with an instant-release medicine between mid-late afternoon and the evening to ensure that they are always getting a supply of their medication throughout the day.
The argument that ADHD is being treated too much and that children are being "drugged up" to control their behaviour and improve their school grades is a valid argument, but it is hard to keep going when medication is so in short supply. There are estimated to be 2.6 million adults and children suffering from the condition in the UK however only 200,000 of them are currently taking medication. This number is likely to increase as the stigma around the condition fades and more people are referred for an ADHD assessment.