ADHD Medication Options After a Positive Diagnosis

ISC-CARE

If you receive a positive diagnosis of ADHD, medication may be one of the treatment options discussed with you. Medication is not mandatory, and for many people it is used alongside psychological therapy, coaching, workplace or academic adjustments, and lifestyle changes.

This page explains the main medication options for ADHD, including stimulant and non-stimulant treatments, how medication is prescribed and monitored, and what happens if standard treatments are not effective or suitable.

Stimulant Medications

Stimulant medication is the most commonly prescribed and evidence-based treatment for ADHD. Despite the name, these medicines work by helping key parts of the brain regulate attention, impulse control, and activity levels.

Stimulant medications increase the availability of dopamine and noradrenaline, which are neurotransmitters involved in focus, motivation, and executive functioning.

Common stimulant medications

Methylphenidate-based medications

• Examples include: Ritalin, Equasym, Medikinet, Concerta XL

• Often the first medication offered, particularly for children and young people

Lisdexamfetamine / Dexamfetamine

• Examples include: Elvanse, Dexedrine

• May be offered if methylphenidate is not effective or causes side effects

How stimulant medication is used

• Started at a low dose

• Gradually increased during a titration period

• Effects and side effects are closely monitored

• Dose is tailored to the individual

Possible benefits

• Improved concentration and attention

• Reduced impulsivity

• Better emotional regulation

• Improved organisation and task completion

Possible side effects

• Reduced appetite

• Difficulty sleeping

• Headaches

• Increased heart rate or blood pressure

• Anxiety or irritability (usually dose-related)

Not everyone experiences side effects, and many settle as the dose is adjusted.

Non-Stimulant Medications

Non-stimulant medication may be considered if:

• Stimulants are ineffective

• Side effects are not tolerated

• There are medical reasons stimulants are not appropriate

Non-stimulants tend to work more gradually and may take several weeks to reach full effect.

Common non-stimulant medications

Atomoxetine (Strattera)

• A selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor

• Often used when stimulants are not suitable

• Requires consistent daily dosing

Guanfacine (Intuniv)

• More commonly used in children and adolescents

• Can help with emotional regulation, impulsivity, and sleep

Possible benefits

• Steadier effect across the day

• Less risk of sleep or appetite disruption

• Useful where anxiety or tics are present

Possible side effects

• Fatigue or sedation

• Low blood pressure

• Nausea

• Mood changes

Medication Titration and Monitoring

All ADHD medication is prescribed following careful assessment and medical review.

Titration involves:

• Regular follow-up appointments

• Monitoring of symptoms and functioning

• Monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and side effects

• Adjusting dose or medication where needed

Once a stable dose is achieved, shared care with a GP may be considered where appropriate.

If Standard Medication Options Are Not Effective or Suitable

In some cases, individuals may find that:

• Two different ADHD medications have been tried

• Adequate titration has taken place

• Benefits are limited or side effects outweigh improvements

Where this occurs, further options may be discussed as part of a specialist-led review, considering the person’s full clinical picture.

Medical Cannabis (Specialist Consideration Only)

Medical cannabis is not a first-line treatment for ADHD and is not routinely prescribed.

In the UK, it may only be considered:

• After at least two appropriate treatment attempts with standard ADHD medications

• Where treatments have been ineffective or not tolerated

• Following a specialist assessment

• Through a licensed specialist prescribing pathway

The evidence base for cannabis in ADHD is limited and still developing, and it is not recommended by NICE as a standard treatment.

Any discussion around this option would focus on:

• Risks and benefits

• Legal and regulatory considerations

• Individual health factors

• Alternative non-pharmacological approaches

Making an Informed Choice

Medication decisions are always collaborative. At ISC-CARE, we support clients to:

• Understand all available options

• Weigh benefits and risks

• Make informed choices that fit their needs, values, and circumstances

If you have questions about ADHD medication, titration, or next steps following a diagnosis, our clinical team will be happy to discuss this with you.

ISC-CARE
Supporting clarity, care, and informed choice