How to Get ADHD Medication UK
Doctors are currently experiencing an acute shortage of ADHD medication. There is a shortage in medications like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine.
If you are suffering from ADHD and are not able to access the NHS for a diagnosis, you could think about a private assessment. The process can be long. Here are a few tips to help you get to the right place.
Find a psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are the sole mental health professionals that can give you a definitive diagnosis of ADHD and prescribe medication. You'll require an assessment. This can be done online and is usually quick. Psychiatrists have huge experience of treating ADHD and are able to make you feel at ease and at comfortable. The assessment may be conducted in person but most often, it will be carried out through video calls.
It is important to make an appointment as quickly as possible, since ADHD can cause disruption to your work and relationships. It's also helpful if can get an appointment from your GP however, a lot of services are now operating under a 'Right To Choose' model and allow you to see the psychiatrist you prefer.
You will have different options based on where you are located in the UK. You can choose to take advantage of the NHS which is completely free, however there is a lengthy waiting list, or opt for the 'Right to choose option that allows you to visit a private clinic for an ADHD assessment and treatment.
The assessment will be with a specialist psychiatrist or psychologist and will involve a discussion about your symptoms as well as details about any family history of mental illness you know about. The psychiatrist will consider your individual needs and decide whether medication is the best option for you. If they decide that medication is best for you, then they will prescribe the right medication. You will likely begin with stimulants, such as the methylphenidate, which is also called Ritalin or amphetamines, salts similar to Adderall. These are the most popular drugs prescribed in Europe and the UK. Stimulants can be either long or short acting and are available as tablets or injections.
You do not have take medication and no psychiatrist will force you to take these medications. Adults suffering from ADHD are usually treated first by medication but some prefer to start out with therapy and then decide on a medication.
Ask Your GP
The NHS is not able to keep up with demand for ADHD medications due to supply issues caused by manufacturing issues and global demand. However, doctors are legally required to refer patients to medical assessment and, if needed, medication.
Inquiring your GP to refer you to an ADHD clinic is the first step. non prescription adhd medication I Am Psychiatry might be reluctant to refer you, especially if you have not discussed your symptoms with them before. It can help to prepare some notes and printed information on adult ADHD and the importance of a precise diagnosis prior to going in to ensure that your GP understands why you need this referral.
After you've been referred to a specialist service, they will be in a position to begin you on ADHD medication and monitor your treatment via an agreement called Shared Care with your doctor. This usually involves bi-weekly appointments (moving up to monthly) until symptoms are well managed and stabilized on medication.
Stimulants, the most common ADHD medication works by enhancing the activity in certain areas of the brain that regulate the impulses and attention. They are available on prescription from GPs however only after you've been officially diagnosed with ADHD by a specialist clinician.
There are also non-stimulants however, they differ in their functioning. Atomoxetine, a non-stimulant, is a selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor. This is distinct from other ADHD medication because it does not increase the levels of noradrenaline within the brain, a sort of chemical messenger that transmits information around the body. This aids people suffering from ADHD concentrate and decrease impulsiveness.
Specialist services will recommend additional support measures like cognitive behavioral therapy and psychoeducation (education and instruction). These will help you improve your coping strategies and learn methods to manage your symptoms, like efficient communication and planning.
It can be difficult to get a proper diagnosis of ADHD in the case of a person of color or a woman born, or a non native English speaker. This is partly because of the stigma surrounding the condition, but it could also be because some healthcare professionals have preconceived ideas about what people suffering from ADHD appear like. Citizens Advice can provide you with guidance and assistance.
Visit a Specialist Clinic
Only psychiatrists can diagnose ADHD. If you're seeking an order for medication, you will require a visit to one of these clinics. This usually involves a series appointments, starting every two weeks and progressing to a monthly appointment to track your development. This is a great method to ensure that your treatment is effective and that you get the most out of it.
If you're referred to an appointment at an expert clinic, it's important that you prepare in advance by familiarising yourself with the various characteristics (symptoms) of ADHD. This will help you to remember them when you meet the doctor. It is also helpful to note examples of these traits from your own life, since this may make it easier for you to explain them to your doctor.
You are now able to choose your own mental health provider in England. This will enable you to get an assessment more quickly than what you can get through the NHS. This is an excellent thing because it means that you can avoid waiting for years to access the treatment that you require.
There are supply issues with a few of the medicines used to treat ADHD, so it's important to know which products your psychiatrist can prescribe prior to going for your appointment. This will let you know your options and determine if there are other options to manage your symptoms.
It is important to know that GPs are not required to stop prescribing ADHD medication if the stock is low. The reason for this is because the shortages are caused by manufacturing issues and a rise in global demand, not any particular GP's policies for their practice.
If you are given a medication to treat your ADHD, it's recommended to keep a record of the dose you receive in the event that there are any issues, and it's important to note that the medication must be stored properly to preserve its effectiveness. It is best kept in a locked cupboard and only those who need to take it must have the key.
Make sure you have a licensed Medication
ADHD is a complex disorder and people with it can have varying symptoms. There are a variety of treatment options. The first option for treating ADHD, and they are an extremely effective method to manage your symptoms. The use of medication can help improve your focus, your ability to control your behavior, and improve your living quality.
Medication can also improve other aspects of your well-being such as mood, and may make you feel more confident about yourself. Combining medications with other treatments like behavioural therapies can help you maximize the benefits of your treatment. Discussing your mental health issues with your GP or specialist clinicians can assist you in determining the most appropriate medication for your requirements.
Stimulants are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD. They work by changing the levels of neurotransmitters in your brain. They are designed to increase concentration, decrease the impulsiveness of people, and decrease hyperactivity. You might recognize methylphenidate as Ritalin, the most popular stimulant. The stimulants are effective within 45-60 minutes.
Atomoxetine, also known as Strattera is a different medication approved to treat ADHD. The medication is often called a "non-stimulant" because it is not able to function as stimulants, yet it can help manage ADHD. It takes longer to take effect however, it can provide a steady, 24-hour control of ADHD symptoms. It is important to remember that ADHD medication isn't always appropriate or effective for those suffering from ADHD and it's usually recommended alongside educational, behavioral, psychological and social interventions.
Patients with ADHD may face delays in receiving their medication due to ongoing drug shortages. GPs should identify patients who are taking ADHD medications, add alerts to their clinical records, and contact local and designated pharmacies when possible to ensure they have enough supply of the medication required. Doctors are also advised to not issue more than 30 days' prescriptions for ADHD medications, as this will exacerbate the problem of supply. It is also advisable to speak to the relevant specialist before you go if you are going on holiday and need an emergency prescription for your ADHD medication.