How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
It can be difficult to get a prescription for ADHD medication due to shortages. This is a problem for all doctors and pharmacies.
If you want to delay waiting, select the 'Right to choose" pathway to access your evaluation. Your local mental health service will need the details of a recent specialist ADHD review before prescribing.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the medications most commonly prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK. They work by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters (chemicals that allow the brain communicate) in the brain. They are highly efficient and can assist with many of the difficulties that arise from living with ADHD. However, as with all medications, they may have negative side effects. Therefore, open communication with your GP about how you're experiencing and any changes to treatment that may be needed.
Stimulant medication works best for adults, but can be used by children and adolescents. There are many different stimulant medications available. The most popular include the methylphenidate (Ritalin) amphetamine salts, and dexamfetamine (Dexamethasone). There is also atomoxetine or Prozac, but it is only approuvé for children over eight years old.
They are usually introduced with low doses and then gradually increased over a couple of days. This is known as titration. It allows for adjustments to be made as you begin to understand the effects of the medication on your child or adult. The psychiatrist will consult with you and take into account any side effects you may be experiencing to determine a dose that is appropriate for you while minimizing side effects.
It may take some time to determine the proper dosage of stimulant ADHD medication but it is crucial to stay on track because long-term use is essential. Making regular appointments with your GP and keeping in close contact about any side effects can ensure that the proper balance is found.
Presently only psychiatrists are able to adjust ADHD medications. However, this could change. In the meantime, GPs are advised not to start new patients on any stimulant medication until the shortage is gone.
You can help support the fight for an accurate diagnosis and access to medication by writing to your GP asking them to refer you to an assessment. You can also download and print the letter of support from ADHD UK to give to your GP.
Stimulants are among the most commonly used psychiatric medications and are available at many pharmacies. They are typically prescribed as tablets and can be used either as an immediate-release or an extended-release drug. Extended-release drugs are given once a day in the morning and can last up to eight hours. Many people who take extended release medication with an instant-release drug between mid-late afternoon and evening to ensure they are always getting a supply of their medication throughout the daytime.
The argument that ADHD is being treated too much and that children are being "drugged up" to manage their behavior and improve their school grades has some merit but it is hard to endure when medications are so scarce. In the UK there are 2.6 million adults and kids who suffer from the condition. However best adhd medication for adults with anxiety are taking medication. This number is likely to rise as the stigma surrounding the condition continues to fade and more people are being referred for an ADHD assessment.