What is the Best ADHD Medication For Adults UK?
Adult ADHD may seem like there are many choices for treatment. What is the most appropriate treatment for you?
There are two kinds of medications for adults suffering from ADHD - stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants increase activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior.
Stimulants
There are many drugs that can be used to treat ADHD. Each medication has a distinct impact on the brain and it can take time to choose the right one for you or your child.
Many adults with ADHD are prescribed stimulants, also known as psychostimulants. They are the first line of treatment. These medications increase the levels of dopamine in the brain, norepinephrine and help people focus better on their work and lessen fatigue symptoms. They also decrease the amount of impulsivity and hyperactivity that are associated with the disorder.
Amphetamine salts are the main stimulants used to treat ADHD. Methylphenidate is the most commonly prescribed and is available as an immediate-release, extended-release or modified-release tablet. These medications are often taken every day in the morning, with an extra dose typically given from late afternoon until the evening.
Methylphenidate, a relatively safe and effective treatment for people suffering from ADHD is very secure. It is a slow-acting medication, meaning it is more likely that it will be absorbed into bloodstream and cause an effect in the brain.
Side effects of stimulants can include anxiety and tremors. Talking with best adhd medication if you notice any of these symptoms is important. They can offer suggestions on how to manage them.
You may receive a mix of stimulants and other medications. Combining these medications could result in greater effectiveness and may cause less side effect than one medication.
Your GP can suggest the most effective medicines for you and for your family. They might refer you to a specialised psychologist or psychiatrist for more specific advice.
In the UK, NICE recommends the use of lisdexamfetamine as a first choice of ADHD medication for adults. It is a reliable drug that is well-tolerated and readily available in the UK for a low cost.
A network meta-analysis confirms this conclusion. This is the largest review of its kind and proves that this medication is more effective for ADHD adults than other treatments , such as the methylphenidate drug and risperidone.
CBT and coaching are other alternatives that could prove beneficial to adults suffering from ADHD. This unregulated field helps people develop strategies and skills in time management and organization. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy that can help you change your thoughts and behavior.
These techniques are a great way to improve your or your child's behavior and self-esteem. However, they can't treat ADHD. A therapist can help you or your child alter your thoughts and emotions to ensure that they don't cause problems in the first place.
There are also some self-help resources you can read or view online that can help with self-care for people who have ADHD. These include videos, books, and internet resources.
While it can be difficult to diagnose ADHD but it can make your child live a happier and more fulfilling life. You can also stay away from bullying by receiving a diagnosis of ADHD.