For some people, medication for ADHD can be helpful when used alongside other strategies (please see strategies to support ADHD). For others, medication is not an option, and this could be for various reasons such as not being able to tolerate side effects or a family history of certain health risks.
Medication for ADHD is split into two main categories: stimulants and non-stimulants. Some of the medications used are controlled substances and should be handled with care and locked away.
ADHD differs from person to person and therefore a medication that is suitable for one person may not be suitable for another person.
Video to help you understand how some medications work
Some of the medications for ADHD come with serious side effects and this why it is important to attend appointments to have the physical checks and also to report any side effects.
The NICE guidance sets out treatment of ADHD and recommends that ADHD medication should be used alongside non-pharmacological strategies as mentioned above.
There may be times when we need to have a planned break from medication for medical reasons or times when a young person decides to have a break from medication, but this will be discussed during the appointment.
The main thing to remember is that medication is only part of the picture, and it is not a “fix” or a “cure” for ADHD.
Sometimes we will prescribe medication for sleep, this medication is called melatonin but again this only works when used alongside sleep strategies (please see the section on sleep).