How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
It can be difficult to obtain prescriptions for ADHD medication due to shortages. This is a problem for all pharmacies and doctors.
You should access your assessment through the 'Right of Choice' pathway if you want to avoid long wait times. Your local mental health service will require details of the most recent specialist ADHD review prior to prescribing.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the drugs that are often prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK. They improve the amount of neurotransmitters in the brain. These are chemicals that enable the brain to communicate. They are very efficient and can aid in overcoming the numerous challenges that come with living with ADHD. As with all medications, they can have negative side negative effects. It is essential to discuss with your GP how you feel and if modifications are required in your treatment.
Stimulant medications are best for adults, but it is also used by children and adolescents. There are a variety of stimulant drugs available. The most commonly used include methylphenidate (Ritalin) amphetamine salts, and dexamfetamine (Dexamethasone). There is also atomoxetine (Prozac) however it is only approved for use in children aged 8 and over.
adhd medication uk are usually introduced at low doses, and gradually increased over a few days. This is called titration, and it allows you to adjust your dosage as you discover the effects of the medication on your child or adult. The psychiatrist will consult with you and look at any side effects you may be experiencing to determine a dosage that is right for you while minimizing negative effects.
It may take some time to determine the proper dosage of stimulant ADHD drugs but it is essential to keep the dosage in check since long-term use is necessary. Regular visits to your GP will help you find the ideal balance.
At present, titration of ADHD medications is only undertaken by specialist psychiatrists, however this could change. In the meantime, GPs have been advised not to prescribe stimulant medications to new patients until the shortage is over.
You can contribute to 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 download and print the support letter from ADHD UK that you can give to your GP.
Stimulants are among the most commonly utilized psychiatric medication and are available at most pharmacies. They are prescribed as tablets and can either be taken as an immediate-release or extended-release drug. Extended-release medicines are usually taken daily in the morning. They can last up to eight hours. Many people take their extended-release medication with an instant-release medication between mid-late afternoon and evening to ensure that they have a constant supply of their medication throughout the day.
The argument that ADHD is being treated too much and that children are being 'drugged up' to control their behaviour and improve their school grades has some merit but it's difficult to sustain when medication is so in short supply. There are estimated to be 2.6 million children and adults suffering from the condition in the UK but only around 200k of them are on medication. This number is likely to rise as the stigma surrounding the condition fades and more people are referred for an ADHD assessment.