ADHD UK Medication
Millions of people suffering from ADHD struggle to access their prescribed medication due to shortages. This is having a major impact on their lives.
Fortunately the NHS has a strategy that is in place to minimize delays and assist those who are waiting for an assessment. The plan combines psychoeducation, psychosocial support and other treatments.
Medication
Around 2.6 million people in the UK have been diagnosed with ADHD. Of those, only about 200 are receiving treatment. The rest manage their symptoms with talk therapy or other techniques. There are two kinds of drugs that are stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are the most common drugs used to treat ADHD, and work by increasing the activity in areas of the brain that control attention and behavior. The most commonly prescribed stimulants are the methylphenidate (Ritalin) amphetamine, dextroamphetamine (Adderall), and Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse). They are available in immediate-release and extended-release forms. They can cause certain people to experience a temporary decrease in appetite, and occasionally increase heart rate. These medications can also cause growth stunting, however it is rare and usually minor.
Modafinil and atomoxetine are both non-stimulant drugs. They are sedatives that have an effect on the brain's reward circuit', and can help reduce impulsive and hyperactive behavior. These drugs are thought to be less harmful than stimulants and can also be taken over a long period of time. for beginners include insomnia and loss of appetite. They also can reduce the frequency of tics (repetitive motions or sounds that resemble eye blinking or throat clearing). They can also impact blood pressure and heart rate.
There are some who are skeptical regarding the use of drugs to treat ADHD concerned that it will be over-medicalised. Some are concerned about the risk of addiction. Parents in the US have expressed concerns about their children taking ADHD medication to improve their school performance. However, experts claim that despite the rising rates of prescriptions in the UK, the UK is not among the most prescribed countries in the world.
If you're thinking of taking a medication to treat your ADHD it is important to consult with a psychiatrist. Only psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication. You don't have to take medication. It's a choice that is your own. Many people decide to try talking therapy before they begin taking medication, or opt not to take it at all.
Psychoeducation
Psychoeducation is a form of education that helps people to understand and manage mental illness. It is a great way to reduce stigma and encourage participation in treatment. Psychoeducation may take the form of group discussions, written materials such as handbooks or brochures, exercise in mindfulness, role-playing, and other techniques that aid clients in processing information.
Psychotherapy and psychoeducation are often paired to maximize the effectiveness of both. Through a method known as motivational interviewing, therapists help the client to determine their readiness to change their behavior and how they can make these changes with the support of their family, friends and other support networks. The therapist can also help the client establish realistic and achievable goals that fit with their values and align with their treatment plan.
There are many medications that can be used to treat ADHD which include stimulants as well as non-stimulants. The type of medication prescribed is determined by several factors, including the patient's personal symptoms and their lifestyle. The dosage of medications is usually carefully adjusted and monitored to ensure the correct dosage is being administered.
Besides medications, the therapy therapist may recommend changes to the environment to help clients live their daily routine. They will differ from one person to another, but could include more calming seating arrangements, optimising work or school settings for breaks during movement or ensuring that the verbal requests are backed up with written instructions (e.g. Cards that say "I need a break" can be used to help people with ADHD learn how to handle social and interpersonal situations which can be overwhelming.
The therapist may also give advice on effective self-management techniques, such as stress reduction, relaxation, and communication skills improvement. These strategies can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from a mental illness that is co-occurring with disorders or who have waited for a long time to visit a specialist and be diagnosed.
Psychoeducation can be beneficial for anyone who has a mental illness. This includes the person diagnosed as well as their family members and loved ones. By providing them with information that they are empowered and in control of their own treatment and can enhance the quality of life.
Behaviour therapy
It is essential for children and adolescents with ADHD to receive psychosocial assistance alongside medication. This could include behavior therapy, which is about changing negative thoughts and emotions and teaching positive behavior. It could also include various things, such as teaching parenting skills and behavioural classroom management, or modelling (where the therapist displays an unfearful and non-threatening response to a negative situation).
Behaviour therapy could aid you or your child to understand the meaning of being diagnosed with ADHD. It can help you gain knowledge about the condition, understand how to manage it and create a support system. It is usually performed by a psychologist, but can also be carried out by a occupational or social therapist.
If you or your child has been diagnosed with ADHD then there is likely to be a discussion regarding the best treatments and medications the most appropriate for you. Stimulants have been around for the longest and are typically prescribed first unless there is a reason not to, such as your health or prior experiences with medications. They increase activity in the parts of the brain responsible for attention and behaviour. They can be either short-acting or longer-acting, and are usually taken as tablets.
In the UK, the most common treatments for ADHD are methylphenidate hydrochloride (commonly known by the brand name Ritalin), atomoxetine and dimesylate of dexamfetamine. CPRD data shows that the use of these medications has risen dramatically since 1995, with the most significant increase occurring in recent years.
Adderall shortages have led to some people to report difficulty getting ADHD medication. This can be a problem, particularly for adults who depend on these drugs to help them feel more calm and more focused at school or in their job. Many people are reporting that they are rationing their medications or storing it to avoid the hassle. The Royal College of Psychiatrists has declared that it is "very concerned" about the impact of this situation on mental health, as it affects people who require access to their essential medications.
Other treatments
The NHS currently provides a variety of drugs to help people with ADHD. Stimulants are the most commonly used and are usually the first choice. They boost the activity of the brain, which can improve concentration and reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity. These drugs are classified as controlled substances because they are addictive. They are normally prescribed by a psychiatrist, and will be closely monitored for any side effects to find the right dose.
The stimulants include methylphenidate, also called Ritalin, the atomoxetine and lisdexamfetamine. They all function in the same way, by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters in order to improve concentration and reduce the impulsive behavior. These medications can trigger a number side effects including an increase in blood pressure and heartbeat. They are therefore not recommended for those with cardiovascular conditions. They can also cause you to feel anxious and nervous and in some instances they may cause weight loss.
In the UK there are more people being diagnosed with ADHD than ever before, and there is a rise in prescriptions for medication. The data from the NHS indicate that 278,000 patients were prescribed central nervous system stimulants and drugs for ADHD between March 2021 to March 2024. Most of them were females aged 25-40.
The increase in prescriptions can be due to improved diagnosis and greater awareness. However, the number could be misleading since it includes prescriptions for private use as well as those used in prisons. Doctors are advised not to overprescribe these medications.
There are a variety of other treatments available alongside medication which can improve the symptoms of a lot of people with ADHD. Psychoeducation is one of them, and it can assist children, teens and adults to understand their condition. It can also help cope with the impact it has on their lives. Behaviour therapy is a different option, and it involves identifying types of behaviours that you wish to encourage, for example, eating at the table. Rewards are then given to the person for exhibiting these behaviours.
Psychoeducation and behavior therapy are effective treatments for a large number of adults with ADHD that have been misdiagnosed or not treated. However, it is important to note that for a significant portion of adults, medication is an essential component of their treatment.