What is the Best ADHD Medication For Adults UK?
Adult ADHD can be confusing and it can appear as if there are a lot of possibilities for treatment. How do you decide on the best treatment option for you?
There are two main types of medications for adults suffering from ADHD including stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants increase activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior.
Stimulants
There are many medications that may be used to treat ADHD. Each has different effects on the brain and requires time to determine the best medication for your child or you.
Many people with ADHD are prescribed stimulants, also known as psychostimulants. They are the first line of treatment. They increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, allowing people focus more effectively on their tasks and lessen symptoms of fatigue. They also decrease the level of hyperactivity and impulsivity caused by the disorder.
Amphetamine salts are among the most popular stimulants used to treat ADHD. Methylphenidate is the most frequently prescribed and can be taken as an immediate-release, extended-release or modified release tablet. These medications are usually taken daily in the morning. An additional dose is typically given in the afternoon or in the evening.
Methylphenidate is a relatively safe and effective treatment for adults with ADHD. It is a'slow-acting' medication, which means it is more likely to be absorbed into bloodstream and to have an impact on the brain.
Certain people have found stimulants can cause adverse effects, including tremors and anxiety. It's crucial to speak with your GP for any of these symptoms, and they'll be able to suggest ways you can manage them.
A combination of stimulants and medicines could be prescribed to you. Combining these medications can result in them being more effective and may cause less side effects than one drug.
Your GP can provide the right medicines for you and your family. They might refer you to a specialised psychiatrist or clinical psychologist for more specific advice.
In the UK, NICE recommends the use of lisdexamfetamine in the first-choice ADHD drug for adults. It is an extremely effective and well-tolerated medication that is readily available for purchase at a reasonable cost in the UK.
link webpage is backed up by a recent network meta-analysis. This review is the largest of its kind and proves that this drug is more effective than other treatments for adults with ADHD, such as methylphenidate or risperidone.
Other methods that may be helpful for some adults with ADHD include coaching and CBT which is an unregulated industry that helps people to develop strategies and abilities in time management, organisation and planning. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that can assist you in changing your thinking and behavior.
These strategies can be a fantastic way to enhance your child's behavior and self-esteem. However, they won't be able to cure ADHD. A therapist can assist you or your child to change your thinking and feelings to prevent problems from arising.
There are also self-help websites which can be beneficial to those suffering from ADHD. These include books, booklets, videos and internet resources.
Although it can be difficult to diagnose ADHD, it can help your child live an enjoyable and happier life. It can also assist you avoid bullying as the condition causes people to have poor social skills.