ADHD Medication For Adults
Medication is often given to people suffering from ADHD as the first line treatment. Stimulants work by increasing activity in certain regions of the brain that play a part in regulating attention and behavior.
They can reduce the frequency of fidgeting, hyperactivity and interruptions. They are typically offered in conjunction with behavioural therapy.
Stimulants
Psychiatrists who specialise in ADHD can prescribe medications that will help to alleviate symptoms of the disorder. These are known as stimulants and include medicines such as methylphenidate and dexamphetamine that increase levels of certain brain chemicals that regulate attention span, self-discipline, and control of impulses. They can also slow your heart rate and be sedating.
Our expert psychiatrists will carefully titrate your medication and make any adjustments necessary to get the best result for you. They will consider the side effects and how your medication affects you in order to determine the right dosage. It is possible that you have to test several different kinds of medication to find the one that is right for you. Stimulant medications typically start to work in 45-60 minutes, so you should see the results of your treatment in a short time. You may need to monitor your symptoms at home for a few days before you and your doctor will determine the right dosage for you.
There are other medications available to treat ADHD. Non-stimulants such as antidepressants as well as atomoxetine, can improve concentration and impulse control by acting in a different way to stimulants. They are beneficial in situations where you are unable to take stimulants due to health issues or if they don't produce the desired effects or have negative side effects.
Stimulants boost the amount of neurotransmitters in your brain, which helps brain cells communicate with each other. They can have a variety of side effects, including eating disorders and sleep problems that your doctor will check on a regular basis to make sure you are getting the best results from your medication.
ADHD medications can take as long as one month before they begin to have an effect. Once you find the right medication, it's crucial to keep your psychosocial support in place, including CBT and mindfulness.
While not everyone suffers from ADHD needs medication, it can make a big difference for many people. It can allow people to read more return to work, take tests and live a more productive lifestyle. It can even mean having a more stable home life.
If you're interested in learning more about how a private psychiatrist can assist you in managing your ADHD, please contact us today. Our team of psychiatrists is well-versed in treating adults with ADHD. We'd be happy to speak with you about your options.
ADHD and Medication - What you should know about ADHD and Medication
It can be a big decision to decide to take medication for ADHD but it could transform your life in a dramatic way. In this video the client James Bloodworth talks about his personal experiences with ADHD medication along with psychosocial support and how it's transformed his life. The UK is currently experiencing an oversupply of ADHD medications, which is expected to last until the end of the year. This is due to supply issues and increased demand. During this period we suggest you talk to your GP in order to discuss alternatives to treatment options and ask if they could prescribe other medications.