How to Get ADHD Medication UK
The use of medication for ADHD is a personal decision and a majority of people decide not to. For those who decide to start treatment, it can prove to be a difficult process.
There is a nationwide shortage of ADHD medications like methylphenidate as well as the newer amphetamine based medication known as lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (Elvanse). This makes it more difficult to obtain an assessment or prescription.
1. See a psychiatrist
ADHD can be a major issue for adults, and especially. However, with the right treatment plan in place, symptoms can be managed and treated to improve the quality of your life. The first step in getting started on your treatment journey is to see a psychiatrist. It may seem scary or intimidating, but this is a normal element of the treatment process. Psychiatrists have extensive training and experience in treating ADHD and can help get you back on the right track.
Begin by visiting your primary doctor and telling them that you'd prefer to be referred a specialist in ADHD. This can be done during your annual checkup, or as a single appointment. Your primary care physician may know someone who is specialized in ADHD in your region, or they can refer to an online platform which connects you to psychiatrists who are able to assess and treat your symptoms.
If you decide to see a psychiatrist to see ensure that you inquire about their experiences with ADHD and other mental health issues. You'll feel more confident in your choice and they will be able to offer you the best treatment possible. It's also a good idea to inform them that you have any family history with mental illness, since this is often genetic and can affect the way you develop the condition.
If you've been to a psychiatrist for an assessment the doctor will examine you and ask questions about your symptoms. They will then use their experience and expertise to determine if you have ADHD and the severity of it. The assessment will be repeated periodically to see how well you're responding to treatment. It is essential to keep taking your medication as symptoms may return quickly in the event that you stop.
The drugs used to treat ADHD are referred to as stimulants or methylphenidate. Stimulants aid in focusing and remain calm by increasing activity in certain brain areas. They can be taken for long periods of time and are available as tablets or capsules. If you have a mild type of ADHD, you may be prescribed a lower dose than if you suffer from a more severe form.
2. Find a Psychiatrist close to you
The first step is to go to your GP and describe your symptoms. It is beneficial to become familiar with the various traits (symptoms) of adult ADHD prior to your appointment, so that you can write down your experiences and provide your GP the context of what you're talking about. This will help them understand your situation and help them make referrals easier for you.
Stimulant drugs can be used to treat people suffering from ADHD. They boost the levels in the brain of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which improves concentration and reduces impulsivity. However, there are also non-stimulant ADHD treatment options. These are called atomoxetine, and they are able to increase the amount of noradrenaline within your brain, which is a messenger chemical that transmits information between nerve cells. They take longer to begin working however they can be extremely beneficial for adults who don't require or want the side effects associated with the stimulating ADHD medications.
Psychiatrists are medical professionals who specialize in mental health issues, and most will have experience of treating adults with ADHD. They will also have experience of how ADHD can be linked to or co-morbidity with other ailments, like depression and anxiety. If not treated, ADHD can cause symptoms that are not recognized and a psychiatric professional will be aware when assessing you for ADHD.
You should find a psychiatrist with whom feel comfortable. Find online reviews, or ask your GP to recommend someone. Many psychiatrists offer video appointments, which are a great way to discuss your concerns and get started on treatment.
You have the right to choose your provider in the event that you're directed to a specialist clinic by your GP for ADHD or choose to receive private assessment and care. If you decide to move to the UK from outside of England while waiting for your ADHD assessment and prescription, or during treatment, then you will not be eligible for this right. This is because if are treated by a GP in England and you're moving to their NHS register.
3. Ask your GP to refer you
Depending on where you live, you may be referred to a psychiatrist with expertise in treating ADHD by your GP. However, if your doctor is a newcomer to the field, it's worth comparing with other doctors to find one who makes you feel comfortable and is familiar with your issues. Finding a doctor that you trust and who is knowledgeable of your situation is crucial. The process of being diagnosed and prescribed medication can be stressful emotionally.
The first time you visit a psychiatrist, they will have to schedule several appointments to determine the appropriate dosage and amount for you or your child. During this time, your Psychiatrist will evaluate the effects of side effects, monitor the effectiveness of the medication and adjust the dosages as needed. The Psychiatrist's report is shared with your GP to ensure they can monitor you development.
If your Psychiatrist is confident that the medication is having an effect, they will start to reduce the dosage and frequency of your visits. However your Psychiatrist will be available to talk to you regarding any concerns or questions you may have about your treatment.
The Psychiatrist will then observe the effects of the medication and will increase dosages or decrease them when needed. During this period the Psychiatrist collaborates with your child's doctor to resolve any medical or mental health issues that may be present.
There are many types of ADHD medication, but the two most popular are stimulants (or amphetamines) and non-stimulants. Both of them work by increasing the amount of neurotransmitters that allow your or the brain cells of your child to communicate with each other. Be aware that medicines take time before they start to work. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately.
If you reside in England, you may request an ADHD assessment via the NHS Right to Choose pathway. This lets you skip the NHS waiting lists and get to see an individual specialist sooner.
4. Consult your GP to prescribe an medication
There are many different drugs available to treat ADHD. They all work in a different manner, but they all increase the amount neurotransmitters within your brain. This will allow you to focus and manage the symptoms of ADHD. Both stimulants and nonstimulants can be prescribed. It is crucial that your psychiatrist test various dosages and types to determine the one that is most effective for you. It is also important that you talk to your psychiatrist about your habits and how medication could affect it. The use of medication is not a cure for ADHD and it may be difficult to adapt to the new routine that involves taking medication. If you decide to use medication, you will need a prescription from your GP.
Your doctor will usually provide you with an initial prescription and then recommend you to a specialist. Once you have received the referral, you are able to visit an expert psychiatrist and get your condition diagnosed. Your GP will not be able to reject your diagnosis, however, since only specialists are able to diagnose ADHD.
In the UK medication is the first treatment option for adult ADHD. Talking therapy is also a viable alternative. It can help change negative coping mechanisms that have been in place for a long time, so it's not just about medications. Many adults choose to stop taking medication and focus on therapy. If you decide to take medication, your doctor will liaise with the pharmacy in your area and nominate them so they are able to keep adequate supplies for their patients. non stimulant adhd medication will also inform you which dose or formulation has changed.
The current shortage of ADHD medication has been extensively reported and has a negative impact on people across the nation. While some medications are back in stock, it is important to discuss the situation with your GP If you are currently taking ADHD medication.
When you make an appointment with your GP make sure to mention that you have ADHD. This will ensure that you are treated as seriously as any other medical issue. It is also beneficial to provide examples of how ADHD symptoms have affected your life. This will assist your GP to better understand your concerns, and develop a treatment plan that is efficient for you.