ADHD Medication
At Private ADHD, we can provide you with ADHD medication following your ADHD diagnosis. We offer ADHD titration online consultations with our psychiatrists to help get your ADHD treatment plan precisely right for you and your needs.
At Private ADHD, we provide comprehensive ADHD care that extends beyond just diagnosis. Once you've been diagnosed with ADHD, our team of experienced psychiatrists can prescribe the most appropriate ADHD medication tailored to your specific needs.
Finding the right medication can be a process, so we offer ADHD titration online consultations. These consultations allow us to carefully adjust your medication dosage, ensuring it is perfectly suited to you and effectively manages your symptoms. To ensure your treatment continues to work optimally, we provide regular follow-up consultations
We monitor your progress, address any concerns, and make necessary adjustments to your medication. Depending on your location, we can offer same-day or next-day prescriptions for ADHD medication, ensuring you have timely access to the treatment you need.
Additionally, we can collaborate with your GP through a shared care arrangement, keeping your healthcare providers informed and adding your medication and official ADHD diagnosis to your medical records. This integrated approach ensures that your ADHD treatment is seamlessly managed and fully supported across all aspects of your care.
What is ADHD Medication?
Once you’ve received an ADHD diagnosis, you might be prescribed ADHD medication to help ease some of the symptoms you are experiencing. We recommend a combination of holistic therapy and ADHD medication to be the best treatment for ADHD.
Currently, ADHD medications are available as stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are typically the first choice; non-stimulants may be considered if they do not work.
This ADHD medication affects key neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline in the brain to help with attention and concentration.
Although not a permanent cure for someone with ADHD, this ADHD medication can help with symptoms such as feeling calmer and helping the individual to feel more focused.
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Stimulant Medications
Stimulant medications are the most commonly prescribed treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). They work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine and norepinephrine, which help improve attention, focus, and impulse control. These medications have a rapid onset of action, often showing effects within 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion.
Non Stimulant Medication
Non-stimulant medications are an alternative for individuals who cannot tolerate stimulants or when stimulants are ineffective. These medications tend to have a slower onset of action and may take several weeks to reach full efficacy. They work by different mechanisms to improve attention, impulse control, and other ADHD symptoms
ADHD Medication for Children and Adults
There are differences in ADHD medication for children and adults, though many medications are used for both age groups. The key differences often lie in the dosing, the choice of drugs, and how the treatment is managed.
Medication for ADHD in Adults
For adults with ADHD, treatment often includes stimulant medications such as Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and Amphetamine-based drugs (Adderall, Vyvanse). These medications help improve focus, attention, and impulse control and are usually prescribed in higher doses compared to those for children. Non-stimulant options like Atomoxetine (Strattera) are also available, particularly for adults who have additional conditions like anxiety or heart issues.
Depending on an adult's daily routine and lifestyle, doctors may prescribe extended-release formulations, which last throughout the day, or immediate-release versions for more flexible dosing. It's crucial for adults to undergo regular monitoring for side effects. This is especially important for those related to heart health, and to adjust the medication as necessary in response to changing life circumstances or other health issues.
Medication for ADHD in Children
When treating children with ADHD, doctors often prescribe stimulant medications such as Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) or Amphetamine-based drugs (Adderall, Vyvanse). These medications are given in doses carefully adjusted for the child's age, weight, and how well they tolerate the treatment. Extended-release versions are commonly used to provide consistent symptom relief throughout the school day, helping children focus and stay on track without needing multiple doses.
Non-stimulant medications like Atomoxetine (Strattera) and Guanfacine (Intuniv) are also options, especially for a child with ADHD who has difficulties with stimulants or who has additional conditions like anxiety. Regular checkups are crucial for monitoring the child's growth, assessing any side effects, and ensuring the medication remains effective as they grow and their needs change.
ADHD Titration - How It Works
ADHD titration simply means adjusting the dose of your ADHD medication to find what suits your needs best.
It may take some time to find the right dosage and medication for an individual. On average, about three follow-up sessions are needed after the initial ADHD diagnosis and medication to determine the correct amount.
ADHD titration involves starting with the lowest dose of ADHD medication and gradually increasing it. It may take up to a week to notice a difference in your symptoms when taking the medication.
It’s common to have a few side effects with ADHD medication, but titration is how we avoid this by gradually increasing the dose. Some side effects are reduced appetite, weight loss, transient blood pressure increases, headaches and trouble sleeping.
These side effects can be reduced by lowering the dosage. The goal of ADHD titration is to find the right zone for your medication, which helps your symptoms but doesn’t leave you feeling overstimulated.
Does ADHD Medication have harmful side effects?
There is a common myth that ADHD medication has serious side effects. Of course, with any medication, there will be minor side effects, but ADHD medication is not harmful.
ADHD medication can be taken without risk long term and short term and does not have any adverse effects. Our psychiatrists will be able to determine whether your dosage should go down, up or remain the same in our follow-up sessions.
The most effective treatment approach for individuals with ADHD is a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and specific techniques. Many patients can expect to take medication for the majority of their lives.
Living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can present daily challenges, from difficulties with concentration and organisation to impulsivity and restlessness. Managing symptoms can often feel like a constant juggling act, requiring patience and understanding from both the individual with ADHD and those around them.
ADHD Medication FAQs
A few of our frequently asked questions about ADHD Medication
What is the best medication for ADHD?
When it comes to treating ADHD, there are a variety of medications available that can help improve symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine-based drugs. These medications are often the first line of treatment as they effectively reduce symptoms in around 70-80% of patients.
However, non-stimulant medications like atomoxetine and guanfacine are also options for those who may not respond well to stimulants or have concerns about potential side effects. Ultimately, the best medication for ADHD will vary from person to person, so it's important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the right treatment plan that suits your individual needs.
How does ADHD medication make you feel?
When it comes to treating ADHD, many people wonder what the most effective medication is. The best medication for ADHD typically depends on the individual and their specific needs. However, some common medications used to treat ADHD include stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamine-based drugs. These medications work by increasing neurotransmitters in the brain, helping improve focus, attention, and impulse control. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best medication for your situation.
What is the most common drug used in ADHD?
ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition that affects individuals of all ages. The most common drug used in treating ADHD is methylphenidate, which is also known by brand names such as Ritalin and Concerta. This medication works by increasing the levels of dopamine in the brain, helping to improve focus, attention, and impulse control in individuals with ADHD. While there are other medications available for treating ADHD, methylphenidate is often the first line of treatment due to its effectiveness in managing symptoms.
Here is a list of commonly used medications for treating ADHD:
Stimulant Medications for people with ADHD
- Methylphenidate-based Medications:
Ritalin, Concerta, Metadate, Focalin, Daytrana (patch), Quillivant XR (liquid),
- Amphetamine-based Medications:
Adderal, lAdderall XR, Vyvanse, Dexedrine, Mydayis Evekeo
Non-Stimulant Medications for people with ADHD:
-Atomoxetine:
Strattera
- Alpha-2 Adrenergic Agonists:
Guanfacine (Intuniv), Clonidine (Kapvay)
Other Medications for ADHD (Less Commonly Used)
Antidepressants:
Bupropion (Wellbutrin), Nortriptyline (Pamelor),Desipramine (Norpramin),dextroamphetamine
These medications are prescribed based on individual needs, and it often requires careful titration and monitoring to find the most effective treatment with the fewest side effects.
Do ADHD meds have side effects?
One common question that arises when discussing ADHD medication is whether these drugs come with any side effects. It is important to acknowledge that, like all medications, ADHD meds can have potential side effects that vary from person to person. Some common side effects include decreased appetite, sleep disturbances, and headaches. However, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication to discuss potential side effects and determine the best treatment plan for individual needs.
Possible side effects of stimulant ADHD medication include; Insomnia, loss of appetite and poor weight gain, increased heart rate or blood pressure, anxiety, nervousness or irritability.
Common side effects of non-stimulant medication include; Drowsiness or fatigue, dry mouth, decreased blood pressure, dizziness and nausea.
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