ADHD Medication For Adults
Adults with ADHD are often treated first by medication. Stimulants work by increasing activity in the parts of the brain that play a role in regulating attention and behavior.
They can help reduce the frequency of fidgeting and hyperactivity. They are typically offered in conjunction with behavioral therapy.
Stimulants
Psychiatrists that specialize in ADHD can prescribe medication to treat the symptoms of this disorder. These are referred to as stimulants. They include drugs such as methylphenidate and dexamphetamine that increase levels of certain chemicals in the brain that regulate the attention span, self-discipline and impulse control. They can also cause sedation and slow down your heart rate.
Our expert psychiatrists will carefully titrate your medication making any adjustments needed to get the best result for you. They will look at the side effects and how your medication affects you in order to determine the appropriate dosage. You may need to try several different types of medications before you discover one that works. The effects of stimulants usually begin within 45-60 minutes. The results should be visible immediately. You may require several days to observe your symptoms before you and your doctor will determine the right dosage for you.
There are other drugs available to treat ADHD. Non-stimulants, such as antidepressants and atomoxetine, help improve concentration and control of impulses 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 fail to produce the desired effects or cause undesirable side-effects.
Stimulants increase the amount of neurotransmitters in your brain, which help brain cells communicate with one other. They can cause a range of side effects, including eating disorders and sleep disorders, which your psychiatrist will check regularly to ensure that you are getting the best results from your medication.
It can take as long as one month for ADHD medication to begin working. This is why it's essential to continue with psychosocial therapy, such as CBT and mindfulness, once you have found the medication that works for you.
While not everyone with ADHD requires medication, it is an important factor for a lot of people. It allows people to return to work, take tests, and lead a more productive life. It can even mean having a more stable home life.
Contact us if you want to know more about how a private psychiatrist can help you manage ADHD. adhd and medication are highly experienced in treating adult 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 choice to choose a medication for ADHD however it can transform your life in a dramatic way. In this video James Bloodworth discusses his experiences with ADHD medication and psychosocial support. It has changed his life. The UK is currently experiencing an ADHD medication shortage that is expected continue until the end the year. This is due to supply issues and increased demand. During this time we suggest you speak with your GP to discuss alternatives to treatment and to determine whether they can prescribe alternative medications in the interim.