10 Reasons Why People Hate ADHD Medication
How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
It can be difficult to get prescriptions for ADHD medication due to the shortage of. This affects all pharmacies and doctors.
You should get your evaluation via the 'Right to Choice' pathway if you want to avoid long waits. Your local mental health clinic will require a copy of the most recent specialist ADHD review prior to prescribing.
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 allow the brain communicate) in the brain. They are extremely efficient and can assist with many of the difficulties that come along with living with ADHD. However, like all medications, they may have adverse effects, so a clear communication is important with your GP about how you are feeling and any changes in treatment that may be necessary.
Stimulant medication works best for adults, but can be used by children and adolescents. There are many different stimulant medications available. The most commonly used include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) amphetamine salts and dexamfetamine (Dexamethasone). There is also atomoxetine, or Prozac but it's only approved for children over eight years old.
They are usually started at low dosages and gradually increased over a few days. This is known as titration and it allows you to make adjustments as you become aware of the effects of the medication on your child or adult. The psychiatrist will look at the adverse effects experienced and work with you to find a dose that works well for you, while minimizing any side effects.
It may take some time to determine the proper dosage of stimulant ADHD medications however it is essential to stay on track because long-term use is necessary. Regular appointments with your GP and keeping in contact with them about any side effects can ensure that the right balance is reached.
The current titration process for ADHD medication is currently carried out by psychiatrists who specialize in this area, but this may change. In the meantime, doctors are advised not to start new patients on any stimulant medication until the shortfall is over.
You can support the fight for an accurate diagnosis and access to medication by writing to your GP asking them to refer you for an assessment. You can also download and print the support letter from ADHD UK that you can give to your GP.
Most pharmacies sell stimulants, which are widely prescribed psychiatric drugs. types of adhd medication are usually prescribed in the form of tablets and are available either as an extended-release or immediate-release drug. Extended-release medicines are prescribed once a day in the morning, and can last up to 8 hours. Many people supplement their extended release medication with an instant-release medication between mid-late afternoon and late evening to ensure they have a constant supply of their medication during the day.
It is difficult to support the notion that ADHD medication is a flimsy one and that children are 'drugged up" to manage their behavior and improve their grades in school. There are estimated to be 2.6 million adults and children with the condition in the UK but only about 200 people are on medication. This number is likely increase as the stigma surrounding ADHD diminishes and more people are being referred to an ADHD assessment.
