ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults with ADHD are usually treated first by medication. Stimulants increase activity in brain areas that control attention and behavior.
They can decrease the frequency of fidgeting and hyperactivity. They are often provided along with behavioural therapy.
Stimulants
Psychiatrists who specialise in ADHD can prescribe medication which can ease symptoms of the condition. These are referred to as stimulants and comprise drugs such as methylphenidate and dexamphetamine, which boost levels of certain chemicals in the brain that regulate the attention span, self-discipline and control of impulses. They also can slow down your heart rate and cause sedating.
Our psychiatrists are trained to be sure to carefully titrate your medication, making adjustments as necessary to achieve the best outcome for you. They will consider side effects and how your medication affects your mood, so they can determine the appropriate dosage. It may be that you need to try a few different types of medications to determine the one that is right for you. The majority of stimulant medications begin to work within 45-60 minutes, so you should be able to see the results of your treatment very quickly. You may have to keep track of your symptoms at home for several days before you and your doctor will determine the right dosage for you.
While stimulants are the most common kind of medication used to treat ADHD There are a variety of other medications available. Antidepressants and Atomoxetine are non-stimulants that help improve concentration and control of impulses by working differently than stimulants. They are beneficial if you cannot use stimulants due to health issues, or if they fail to provide the desired effects or have unpleasant side-effects.
The effects of stimulants increase the number of neurotransmitters in your brain, which aids in brain cells communicate with each other. Some side effects include loss of appetite as well as sleep issues, among other side effects. Your psychiatrist will monitor these frequently to ensure you get the most from your medication.
ADHD medications can take up to a month before they start to take effect. This is why it is important to continue with psychosocial therapy, such as CBT and mindfulness, once you have found the treatment that is right for you.
While not everyone with ADHD requires medication, it could be an important factor for a lot of people. It allows them to get back to work, sit exams, and lead a more productive lifestyle. It could even mean having a a more stable home life.
If you are interested in finding out more about how a private psychiatrist could assist you in managing your ADHD Contact us today. Our psychiatrists are extremely experienced in treating adults with ADHD. We would be happy to speak with you about your options.
ADHD and Medication: What You Need to Know
It can be a big decision to decide to take medication for ADHD however it can transform your life in a dramatic way. In this video client James Bloodworth talks about his personal experiences using ADHD medication alongside psychosocial support and how it's transformed his life. The UK is currently experiencing an ADHD medication shortage, which is expected to continue until the end the year. This is due both to supply issues and an increase in demand. In this period we suggest you speak with your GP to adhd medication names discuss alternatives to treatment and to determine if they can prescribe alternative treatments in the meantime.