After Diagnosis
Treatment & medication
A diagnosis is the beginning, not the end. This page explains the treatment options available for adults with ADHD in the UK, how medication works, and what to expect from the titration process.
Important: The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute medical advice. ADHD medication is a controlled drug in the UK and must be prescribed by a qualified specialist following a formal assessment. All prescribing at ADHD Assessment UK is carried out by GMC-registered clinicians in accordance with NICE guideline NG87.
Pharmacological Treatment
ADHD medications available in the UK
Methylphenidate
Ritalin, Concerta XL, Medikinet, Equasym
Stimulant (first-line)How it works
Inhibits reuptake of dopamine and noradrenaline in the brain, increasing their availability in the prefrontal cortex.
Formulations
Immediate-release (2-4 hour duration) and modified-release (8-12 hour duration) formulations available.
Clinical notes
Most commonly prescribed ADHD medication in the UK. NICE recommends as first-line pharmacological treatment for adults.
Lisdexamfetamine
Vyvanse, Elvanse
Stimulant (first-line)How it works
Prodrug converted to dexamphetamine in the body. Longer duration of action than methylphenidate (up to 14 hours).
Formulations
Capsules (can be opened and mixed with water). Once-daily dosing.
Clinical notes
Often preferred when methylphenidate is not effective or tolerated. Also licensed for binge eating disorder in adults.
Atomoxetine
Strattera
Non-stimulant (second-line)How it works
Selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Takes 4-6 weeks to reach full therapeutic effect.
Formulations
Capsules, once or twice daily. Not a controlled drug.
Clinical notes
Preferred when stimulants are contraindicated, not tolerated, or where there is a risk of misuse. Can be prescribed by GPs once initiated by a specialist.
Guanfacine
Intuniv
Non-stimulant (second-line)How it works
Alpha-2A adrenergic receptor agonist. Reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity via a different mechanism to stimulants.
Formulations
Extended-release tablets, once daily.
Clinical notes
Used when stimulants are not appropriate. Also helpful for emotional dysregulation and sleep difficulties associated with ADHD.
Medication selection is an individual clinical decision. The above is for information only. Your clinician will discuss which option is most appropriate for your circumstances.
The Process
From assessment to stable prescription
01
Assessment and diagnosis
A comprehensive ADHD assessment establishes whether ADHD is present and whether medication is clinically appropriate. Not all adults with ADHD require medication -- this is a clinical decision made with you, not for you.
02
Discussion of options
Your clinician will explain the available medication options, their evidence base, likely benefits, and potential side effects. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and make an informed decision.
03
Baseline checks
Before starting medication, your clinician will check your blood pressure, pulse, height, and weight, and review your medical history for any contraindications. An ECG may be required in some cases.
04
Starting at a low dose
Medication is always started at the lowest effective dose and increased gradually. This minimises side effects and allows the optimal dose to be identified for your individual physiology.
05
Titration and monitoring
During the titration period (typically 6-12 weeks), you will have regular check-ins with your clinician to review effectiveness and tolerability. Dose adjustments are made based on your response.
06
Shared care with your GP
Once your medication is established and stable, your clinician will write to your NHS GP recommending shared care. If your GP agrees, they will take over prescribing, allowing you to access medication on an NHS prescription.
Beyond Medication
Non-pharmacological treatment
NICE guideline NG87 recommends that pharmacological treatment for ADHD should be offered alongside psychoeducation and, where appropriate, psychological interventions. Medication and non-medication approaches are complementary, not alternatives.
ADHD-focused CBT
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy adapted for ADHD addresses the thinking patterns, avoidance behaviours, and emotional dysregulation that medication alone does not fully resolve. NICE recommends psychological interventions alongside medication.
ADHD coaching
ADHD coaching is a practical, goal-oriented intervention that helps adults develop systems for organisation, time management, and task completion. It is not therapy but a structured support for daily functioning.
Psychoeducation
Understanding how ADHD affects your brain and behaviour is itself therapeutic. Psychoeducation helps you make sense of your history, reduce self-blame, and develop self-compassion alongside practical strategies.
Exercise and lifestyle
Regular aerobic exercise has a well-evidenced positive effect on ADHD symptoms, increasing dopamine and noradrenaline availability. Sleep hygiene, structured routines, and dietary consistency also support symptom management.
NHS Prescribing
Shared care with your GP
Shared care is an arrangement where a specialist initiates ADHD medication and then transfers ongoing prescribing responsibility to the patient's NHS GP. This allows patients to access medication on an NHS prescription, significantly reducing long-term costs.
Our clinical reports are specifically designed to support shared care requests. We provide clear, comprehensive documentation that gives GPs the information they need to make a confident decision.
GPs are not legally obliged to accept shared care, and some decline. If your GP declines, we will continue to support you with private prescriptions and can advise on escalation routes including your local Integrated Care Board (ICB).
What our report includes
Full diagnostic formulation and DSM-5 criteria met
Recommended medication, dose, and titration schedule
Monitoring requirements (BP, pulse, weight)
Contraindications and cautions reviewed
Shared care protocol and GP responsibilities
Contact details for clinical queries
Already stable on your medication?
Our £39/month Continuing Care Plan covers routine prescriptions, monitoring and your annual review once titration is complete.
Start with an assessment
Treatment begins with a formal diagnosis. Assessments from £399 · Online across England.