How to Get ADHD Medication in the UK
The supply of ADHD medication isn't always consistent and it may be difficult to obtain a prescription due to a shortage. This affects all doctors and pharmacies.
You should access your assessment via the 'Right to Choice' pathway if you want to avoid long wait times. Before prescribing ADHD medication, your local mental health service may require a current ADHD specialist review.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the drugs that are often prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK. They are effective by increasing the quantity of neurotransmitters (chemicals that enable brain cells to communicate) in the brain. They are highly efficient and can aid in overcoming the numerous challenges that arise from living with ADHD. However, as with all medications, they may have negative side effects. Therefore, open communication is essential with your GP regarding how you're feeling and any changes in treatment that may be necessary.
Stimulant medications are best suited for adults, but can also be used by children and adolescents. There are a variety of stimulant drugs available. The most popular include methylphenidate (Ritalin), amphetamine salts and dexamfetamine (Dexamethasone). There is also atomoxetine or Prozac, but it is only approuvé for children over the age of eight.
They are generally started at low doses and gradually increased over a few weeks. This is known as titration which allows you to make adjustments as you become aware of the effects of the medication on your adult or child. The psychiatrist will consider the side effects that are encountered and assist you in finding the dose that is most effective for you, while minimizing any side effects.
It can take some time to determine the right dosage of stimulant ADHD medications however it is essential to stay on track because long-term use is required. Having buy adhd medication online with your GP and keeping in close contact about any side effects can ensure that the ideal balance is found.
Presently, only psychiatrists are able to titrate ADHD medications. However, this could change. In the meantime, GPs have been advised to not prescribe stimulant medication to new patients until the shortage is over.
You can help support 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 also print and download the letter of support from ADHD UK to give to your GP.
The majority of pharmacies sell stimulants, which are widely prescribed psychiatric medications. They are typically prescribed in the form of tablets and are available either as an extended-release or immediate-release drug. Extended-release drugs are given every morning in the morning and can last up to 8 hours. Many people supplement their extended-release medication with an immediate-release drug in the mid to late afternoon to ensure they have a steady supply of their medication throughout the day.
The argument that ADHD is a condition that requires a lot of medication and that children are "drugged up" to control their behavior and improve their school grades has merit, but it's difficult to endure when medications are so in short supply. There are thought to be 2.6 million children and adults suffering from the condition in the UK but only about 200 people are taking medication. This number is likely increase as the stigma surrounding ADHD is gradually fading, and more people are referred to an ADHD assessment.