Treatments

Many people will have tried many herbal remedies, vitamin supplements or even anti-depressants/anxiety medication before seeking assessment for ADHD.

Depending on your ADHD symptoms you might gain sufficient benefit from non-pharmacological treatments such as herbal remedies and supplements. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) allows some individuals to recognise ADHD traits and alter how they approach situations.

Before you start any medication, we'll check your blood pressure and heart rate, and again at regular follow-ups, as with any ADHD medication. Some people notice mild nausea, dry mouth, tiredness, or changes to sleep or appetite in the early weeks — these often settle. We'll go through the full safety information with you and stay in touch as you adjust, so nothing is a surprise and we can change course together if it isn't the right fit.

Non-stimulant medication

These medications can be easier to manage as they can be prescribed for longer periods (or repeats), they are also easier to carry abroad. If you have concerns about stimulant medication then they can be a safer option. It works by increasing the availability of noradrenaline, a brain chemical involved in attention and impulse control.

Non-stimulant medication, commonly known as Atomoxetine, can take longer to feel the benefit; it also needs to be taken daily. If you have certain conditions such as specific heart problems, significant anxiety, tics or you’re worried about misuse of stimulant medication then Atomoxetine might be most appropriate for you. Atomoxetine is generally a cheaper medication, but please see our costs page.

You may come across other non-stimulant medications, such as guanfacine or viloxazine, when researching ADHD online — these are used in some other countries, but are not commonly used in UK adults.

Stimulant medication

Stimulant medication is a common treatment for ADHD, many find it makes the biggest difference to day-to-day focus and impulsivity. These medications are ‘controlled drugs’ and can be only prescribed for a month at a time, whereas Atomoxetine can be prescribed for 3 months once stable. One of the main side-effects of stimulant medication is insomnia; this can be managed with other remedies.

One of the main benefits of stimulant medications is that it can be taken as needed. Generally, we recommend regular use when becoming stable to ensure you and your body get used to the medication. Once you’re happy with the medication some only take it on days they need their ‘ADHD to be under control’; thus a script of medication may last longer than the 28 days.

Starting and monitoring

If medication is felt to be the best option then we review you every month for 3 or 4 months. Once you are stable on the medication we touch base, monitor your physical observations (Blood Pressure, Pulse and weight) and generally see you 3 or 4 monthly.