How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
It can be difficult to get a prescription for ADHD medication due to a shortage. This is true for all pharmacies as well as doctors.
You should get your assessment through the 'Right to Choose route if you wish to avoid lengthy wait times. The local mental health services will require a copy of an upcoming specialist ADHD review before prescribing.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the medications most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK. They help by increasing the quantity of various neurotransmitters within the brain - chemicals that allow the brain to communicate. They are very effective and can help with the numerous challenges that come with living with ADHD. However, like all medications they can have adverse effects, so a clear communication is essential with your GP about how you're experiencing and any changes to treatment that may be needed.
mouse click the following webpage are best suited for adults, but can also be utilized by adolescents and children. There are many different stimulant drugs available. The most common ones include methylphenidate (Ritalin) amphetamine salts, and dexamfetamine (Dexamethasone). There is also an atomoxetine (Prozac) however, it is only approved for use by children 8 and up.
They are usually introduced with low doses and increased gradually over a few weeks. This is referred to as titration which allows you to make adjustments as you become aware of the effects of the medication on your child or adult. The psychiatrist will consult with you and consider any adverse effects you might be experiencing to determine the dosage that is appropriate for you while minimizing the adverse effects.
It may take some time to determine the proper dosage of stimulant ADHD medication however it is essential to stay on track because long-term use is essential. Regular appointments with your GP and staying in constant contact with any side effects can ensure that the proper balance is reached.
At present, titration of ADHD medications is currently only done by specialist psychiatrists, however this may change. In the meantime, general practitioners have been advised to not prescribe stimulant medications to new patients until the shortage is resolved.
You can 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 also print and download the letter of support from ADHD UK to give to your GP.
Most pharmacies sell stimulants, which are widely prescribed psychiatric medications. They are usually prescribed as tablets and are available either as an immediate-release or an extended-release drug. Extended-release drugs are typically taken once a day, in the morning. They can last up to eight hours. Many people take a second dose of their extended-release medication along with an immediate-release drug in the afternoon, between mid and late afternoon, to ensure they have a steady supply of their medication throughout the day.
The argument that ADHD is over-medicalised and that children are 'drugged up' to control their behaviour and improve their school performance has some merit but it's difficult to endure when medications are so in short supply. There are estimated to be 2.6 million adults and children suffering from the condition in the UK but only around 200k of them are on medication. This number is likely to increase as the stigma associated with ADHD diminishes and more people are being referred to an ADHD assessment.