ADHD medication
What NICE recommends, how it works, and what to expect.
How ADHD medication works
ADHD medication doesn't "cure" ADHD, but it can make a big difference to concentration, impulsivity and restlessness for many people. NICE recommends offering medication when ADHD is still causing significant difficulties after environmental changes have been put in place and reviewed.
Medication is started by a specialist, usually at a low dose that's slowly increased ("titration") while side effects and benefits are checked. Before starting, your heart rate, blood pressure and weight (and height, for children) will be checked.
Stimulant medication
Stimulants are usually the first medicines offered. They work quickly, often within an hour, by increasing the activity of certain chemical messengers in the brain.
| Medicine | Where NICE places it |
|---|---|
| Methylphenidate | First choice for children aged 5 and over and young people. A first choice for adults. Comes in short- and long-acting forms. |
| Lisdexamfetamine | A first choice for adults. For children, offered if a 6-week trial of methylphenidate hasn't helped enough. |
| Dexamfetamine | May be considered for children and young people who respond to lisdexamfetamine but can't tolerate its longer effect. |
Non-stimulant medication
These work differently and take longer to reach full effect, often several weeks. They may suit people who can't take stimulants, or who didn't find them helpful.
| Medicine | Where NICE places it |
|---|---|
| Atomoxetine | For children, young people and adults who can't tolerate stimulants, or where stimulants haven't helped enough. |
| Guanfacine | For children and young people, in the same situations as atomoxetine. Only used in adults with specialist advice. |
Possible side effects
Side effects are usually mild and often settle within a few weeks. Common ones include reduced appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches, stomach aches, and a slightly raised heart rate or blood pressure. Your prescriber will monitor you regularly, and your medication should be reviewed at least once a year.
Always tell your prescriber about side effects. Don't stop or change your dose without talking to them first.
After a private diagnosis
If you'd like to try medication after a private diagnosis, you have two main options:
- Private prescribing: a private specialist starts and adjusts your medication. This has its own costs.
- Shared care with your GP: once your medication is stable, a specialist may ask your GP to take over prescribing under a "shared care agreement". GPs are not required to accept these, and policies vary between areas, so it's worth asking your GP practice about their approach first.
Whatever the outcome of your assessment, your report will include clear recommendations to help you take the next step.
Please note: this is general information, not personal medical advice. Always talk to your GP or prescriber before starting, stopping or changing medication. We do not prescribe.
Source: NICE guideline NG87, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: diagnosis and management. Page last reviewed September 2026.