How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
It can be difficult to obtain a prescription for ADHD medication due to shortages. This affects all doctors and pharmacies.
If you want to avoid waiting, you should choose the 'Right to Choose" pathway to access your assessment. Your local mental health clinic will require a copy of an upcoming specialist ADHD review prior to prescribing.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the drugs most often prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK. They help by increasing the availability of various neurotransmitters within the brain - chemicals that enable the brain to communicate. They are extremely effective and can help with many of the issues that arise from living with ADHD. However, as with adhd uk medication , they may have adverse effects, so a clear communication is important with your GP about how you're experiencing 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 methylphenidate (Ritalin), amphetamine salts and dexamfetamine (Dexamethasone). There is also atomoxetine or Prozac, but it is only approved for children over eight years old.
They are usually introduced at low doses, and gradually increased over a couple of days. This is referred to as titration. It allows for adjustments to be made as you get to know the effect of the medication on your child or adult. The psychiatrist will consider the adverse effects encountered and work with you to find the dosage that works for you, while minimizing the risk of side adverse effects.
It can take some time to find the correct dosage of stimulant ADHD medications but it is crucial to remain on track as long-term use is essential. adhd medication with your GP can help you find the ideal balance.
Currently, only psychiatrists can regulate ADHD medications. However, this may change. In the meantime, GPs are advised to not start new patients on any stimulant medication until the supply is over.
You can help in the fight for a more precise diagnosis and better access to medications by asking your GP to refer you to an assessment of your medical condition. You can also download and print 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 either be taken as an immediate-release drug or an extended-release one. Extended-release medications are administered once a morning in the morning and can last up to eight hours. Many people will add an immediate-release medication during the afternoon, between mid and late afternoon, to ensure they have a steady supply of their medication throughout the day.
It is difficult to back the claim that ADHD medication is over-medicalised and that children are "drunk up" to manage their behavior and improve their grades at school. There are thought to be 2.6 million children and adults suffering from the condition in the UK but only about 200 people are on medication. This number is likely increase as the stigma surrounding ADHD is gradually fading, and more people are referred to an ADHD assessment.