How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
The availability of ADHD medication is variable and it can sometimes be difficult to obtain a prescription due to a shortage. This is a problem for all pharmacies and doctors.
If you want to delay waiting, choose the 'Right to Choose" pathway to access your assessment. Before prescribing ADHD medication the local mental health clinic may require a current ADHD specialist review.
Stimulants
In the UK in the UK, stimulants are among the most frequently prescribed drugs to treat ADHD. They help by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters (chemicals that allow the brain communicate) in the brain. They are extremely efficient and can ease many of the challenges that arise from living with ADHD. However, like all medications, they may have side effects so open communication is essential with your GP about how you're feeling and any changes in treatment that may be needed.
Stimulant medications are best for adults, but it is also used by adolescents and children. They are available in a number of different forms, the most popular being methylphenidate hydrochloride (Ritalin) amphetamine salts and dexamfetamine dimesylate (Dexamethasone). There is also an atomoxetine (Prozac) however, it is only approved for use in children aged 8 and over.
adhd medication uk for adults are usually started at low doses and gradually increased over a few weeks. This is referred to as titration. It allows for adjustments to be made as you begin to understand the effects of the medication on your child or adult. The psychiatrist will consult with you and consider any adverse effects you might be experiencing to determine a dose that is right for you while minimizing the negative effects.
It can take some time to find the correct dosage of stimulant ADHD medication but it is crucial to stay on track because long-term use is essential. Regular visits with your GP will help you find the ideal balance.
Currently only psychiatrists are able regulate ADHD medications. However, this could change. In the meantime, general practitioners are advised not to start new patients on any stimulant medication until the shortfall is over.
You can contribute to the fight for a better diagnosis and access to medications by writing to your GP asking them to refer you to an assessment. You can download and print the support letter from ADHD UK that you can give to your GP.
Most pharmacies sell stimulants, which are commonly prescribed psychiatric drugs. They are typically prescribed in the form of tablets and are available either as an immediate-release or extended-release drug. Extended-release medicines are prescribed once a day in the morning, and can last up to 8 hours. Many people will supplement their extended-release medication with an immediate-release medication during the mid to late afternoon to ensure they have a consistent supply of their medication throughout the day.
It is difficult to support the claim that ADHD medication is a flimsy one, and that children are 'drugged up" to control their behavior and improve their performance in school. In the UK, there are 2.6 million adults and kids who suffer from the condition. However only 200,000 are taking medication. This number is likely to rise as the stigma around ADHD is gradually fading, and more people are referred to an ADHD assessment.