How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
It is sometimes difficult to obtain a prescription for ADHD medication due to a shortage. This is true for all pharmacies as well as doctors.
You should get your assessment through the 'Right of Choice option if you wish to avoid lengthy wait times. Your local mental health clinic will require details of an upcoming specialist ADHD review prior to prescribing.
Stimulants
In the UK in the UK, stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications to treat ADHD. They are effective by increasing the quantity of neurotransmitters (chemicals that enable brain cells to communicate) in the brain. They are extremely effective and can help with many of the difficulties that come along with living with ADHD. However, as with all medications they can have side effects so open communication is essential with your GP about how you're feeling and any changes in treatment that may be necessary.
Stimulant medications are best for adults, but it can be used by children and adolescents. They are available in a variety of different forms, the most common being methylphenidate hydrochloride (Ritalin) amphetamine salts and dexamfetamine dimesylate (Dexamethasone). There is also an atomoxetine (Prozac) however, it is only licensed for use by children 8 and over.
They are typically started at low dosages and gradually increased over a couple of days. This is referred to as titration and it permits you to make adjustments as you become aware of the effects of the medication on your adult or child. The psychiatrist will consider the adverse effects observed and assist you in finding the dose that is most effective for you, while minimizing side effects.
It can take some time to determine the proper dosage of stimulant ADHD medication, but it is vital to stay on track because long-term use is required. Regular appointments with your GP and staying in contact with them about any adverse effects can help ensure that the ideal balance is reached.
At present, titration of ADHD medication is currently carried out by specialist psychiatrists, however this may change. In the meantime, general practitioners have been advised to not prescribe stimulant medication to new patients until the shortage has ended.
You can contribute to the fight for an accurate diagnosis and access to medications by writing to your GP asking them to refer you for an assessment. add adhd medications can print and download the letter of support from ADHD UK to give to your GP.
Stimulants are the most widely used psychiatric medications and are available from most pharmacies. They are typically prescribed in the form of tablets and are available either as an immediate-release or an extended-release drug. Extended-release drugs are typically taken daily, in the morning. They can last up to eight hours. Many people supplement their extended release medication with an instant-release medication between mid-late afternoon and the evening to ensure they are always getting a supply of their medication during the daytime.
The argument that ADHD is over-medicalised and that children are "drugged up" to manage their behavior and improve their school grades has some merit but it is hard to endure when medications are so scarce. There are estimated to be 2.6 million adults and children with the condition in the UK however only 200,000 of them are currently taking medication. This number is likely to increase as the stigma associated with ADHD continues to fade, and more people are referred to an ADHD assessment.