ADHD medication for children and young people

Yes. ADHD medication is generally considered safe when prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional. Stimulant medications have been used for decades and are supported by a strong body of research. Regular check-ups help to monitor your child’s response and ensure their safety.

The decision to medicate should be based on how ADHD symptoms affect your child's daily life, including their ability to focus, manage emotions, and maintain social relationships.

If ADHD symptoms are significantly impacting your child’s self-esteem, friendships, or performance in school, medication may help.

Your clinician will work with you to help determine if medication is the right option, along with other support.

Some children may experience a temporary slowing of height or weight gain during the first year or so of treatment. However, studies suggest these changes usually even out over time.

Your child’s growth will be closely monitored during treatment, which is why we ask you to provide up-to-date readings of their height, and weight.

Research shows that, when used as prescribed, ADHD medications do not cause long-term harm to the developing brain. Many young people benefit from medication as part of a wider support plan, helping them thrive at school and at home.

In most children, stimulant medication causes only a small increase in heart rate or blood pressure and is not dangerous. Your child’s health history will be reviewed before starting treatment, and regular monitoring is part of ongoing care.

This is why we ask for up-to-date readings of your child’s blood pressure and pulse before medication begins, and before each follow-up titration appointments afterwards.

In some cases, a clinician may recommend a cardiac auscultation (listening to your child’s heart with a stethoscope) to check everything sounds normal. If this is needed, we’ll work with you to help organise it and make sure you feel fully supported.

It’s a common concern, but ADHD medication is designed to help your child manage symptoms, not change who they are.

Medications like stimulants work to enhance focus and reduce hyperactivity, but they shouldn’t alter your child’s core personality. Many parents report that their child’s personality remains the same, but they are more able to concentrate and engage in tasks.

You could check-in regularly with your child, and talk about how they feel on the medication and the difference it's making for them. Anything you or your child have noticed or are concerned about can be discussed with the clinician during the regular appointments.

ADHD medication is not necessarily a lifelong commitment.

Some children may need it long-term, while others may only need it for a few years to help build focus and manage their symptoms.

Medication is often part of a broader treatment plan that includes therapy, skills-building, and support from family and teachers.

You can reassess your child’s needs as they grow and change.

ADHD medication is a tool to help your child manage their symptoms, but it doesn’t mean they’ll be reliant on it forever. It can help them focus, learn new habits, and improve self-regulation.

Many children eventually learn how to manage their ADHD better as they grow older and may not need medication in the long term. The goal is to help your child develop the skills to succeed both with and without medication.

ADHD medication can be an important part of helping your child manage their symptoms, but it can take time to find the right one. Every child responds differently, and it’s not uncommon to try more than one medication or adjust the dose before finding the best fit.

Like all medicines, ADHD medication can cause side effects—though not everyone experiences them. The most common side effects include:

• loss of appetite
• difficulty sleeping
• jitteriness or restlessness
• mood changes or irritability
• headaches or stomach aches
• increased heart rate or blood pressure

These often appear in the first few days of starting or changing a dose and usually settle as your child’s body adjusts. ADHD medication leaves the body quickly, so most side effects wear off within a few hours.

Most side effects can be managed, and if needed, your clinician can adjust the dose or suggest a different medication. You can stop or change the medication at any time in consultation with your clinician.

Finding the right balance is a process, but many parents report meaningful improvements once the right medication and dosage are in place.

It’s important that your child or teenager feels included and listened to when it comes to their care. Wherever possible, decisions about ADHD medication should be made together, with you, your child, and their clinician working as a team. Encourage your young person to share how they’re feeling, ask questions, and talk about any worries or side effects. This helps them feel respected and builds trust.

Your clinician will take time to explain things in a way your child can understand and will check in regularly to make sure the plan still feels right. Helping your child take an active role in their care supports their confidence and wellbeing - now and in the future.

You play a key role. Your views and questions matter, and any decisions should be made together with your clinician, based on what’s best for your child. Open conversations with your child and their care team help ensure the right support is in place.

It’s normal to feel conflicted about the decision to medicate, but ADHD medication isn’t about giving up or controlling behaviour, it’s about helping your child succeed and manage their symptoms.

Think of medication like glasses for someone with vision problems — it helps them function better in daily life. The most important thing is your child’s well-being and ability to thrive, both academically and socially.

This is a common concern. Stimulant medications are controlled substances, but when taken as prescribed, they are not addictive. Your child will be closely monitored to ensure safe and appropriate use. If your child is a teenager or at higher risk, this will be part of the conversation when deciding on treatment.

Everyone has a different response to medication. Often it is helpful to reflect on which ADHD symptoms have been the most challenging for your child and to consider whether these have improved. Your child's response to medication is likely to be different to that of others that you may know that also take ADHD medication.

You may notice that your child:

• finds it easier to concentrate and stay on task
• is less restless or impulsive, both at home and at school
• appears calmer and more able to manage their emotions
• handles daily routines or transitions with more ease
• shows improved confidence in learning or social situations

Teachers, family members, or even your child may notice these changes before you do. It’s a good idea to keep a note of any improvements, or any concerns, and share them with your child’s clinician. This helps ensure the medication is working as intended and can be adjusted if needed.

Medication should not be stopped abruptly without consulting your child’s clinician. If you feel the medication isn’t working or the side effects are concerning, contact your clinician to discuss alternatives or adjustments rather than discontinuing it on your own.

Some families choose to give their child a break from medication during school holidays or weekends, especially if the medication affects appetite or sleep.

This can be discussed with your child’s clinician to ensure it’s done safely.

However, some children benefit from consistent use to maintain focus and emotional regulation in all environments, not just school.

If your child is taking ADHD medication and you’re planning to travel, there may be some important steps to take in advance. These medications are classed as controlled drugs, and some countries have strict rules about what you can bring with you.

Here’s what to be aware of:

• You may need a letter from the prescriber confirming your child’s medication and dosage.
• Some countries (including those in the Schengen area) may ask for a special certificate.
• Other countries may have specific documentation requirements, so it’s important to check with the embassy of the country you’re visiting.
• You can find general information on the GOV.UK website.

If Clinical Partners is prescribing your child’s medication, please allow at least 10 working days to request a travel letter from us. If your GP is prescribing, you’ll need to ask them for the letter directly.

We understand how important it is for your child to stay well while away, and we’ll do all we can to help you prepare for a smooth and stress-free trip.

It can be helpful to have a meeting with your child’s school to explain their diagnosis, treatment plan, and any accommodations they might need in the classroom.

Your child's ADHD assessment report will also include detailed recommendations for school, and your clinician can also provide further guidance.

Schools are often willing to support children with ADHD by offering extra breaks, fidget tools, or additional assistance with focus and organisation.

For suggestions on how to support children with ADHD at school, take a look at our blog:

• Supporting ADHD in schools: Advice to help students
• How parents can prepare children with ADHD for school
• ADHD homework strategies: Tips to help a child study
• ADHD and reading: Reading help for students with ADHD

To find the optimal medication to help your child effectively manage their symptoms, we start with titration. The goal of this process is to find the dose of medicine that controls your child's ADHD symptoms with the fewest side effects.

The titration process and the number of appointments varies from person to person. Usually, it takes between two and four months, depending on how quickly the right medication and dosage are found.

Your clinician will explain possible side effects before your child starts treatment. If you notice anything that concerns you, please get in touch. The clinician may need to review your child's medication or adjust the dose to help manage the symptoms.

For severe or worrying side effects, we recommend calling NHS 111 for advice.

ADHD medication, like methylphenidate (the first medicine doctors usually try), comes in different forms. It might be a tablet, capsule, or liquid. Some types work quickly and need taking several times a day. Others last all day and are taken once in the morning.

Your clinician will explain which one is right for your child and how to take it.

You can read more about each medication by visiting the electronic medicines compendium (emc) website.

It’s completely normal for your child to feel a bit nervous about starting medication. Talking openly and checking in with them regularly can really help.

You might want to gently ask how they’re feeling, whether they’ve noticed any changes, and what difference the medication is making in their day-to-day life.

At each follow-up titration appointment, your child’s clinician will ask how things are going. It can be helpful to keep notes on any changes you’ve seen in their mood, focus, behaviour, or any side effects. This helps you and the clinician make the most of your time together.

Supporting a balanced diet, regular routines, and healthy sleep can also make a big difference during this time.

If you or your child have any worries at all, please share them with your clinician during the appointments.

While medication works well for many young people with ADHD, others find non-medication strategies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments extremely helpful. Many families find the best results come from a combination of medication and behavioural strategies.

For more information about lifestyle changes and possible treatment options, take a look at our blog.

As part of shared care, your child’s ADHD medication will usually be reviewed every six months by a specialist clinician at Clinical Partners. These regular reviews are an important way to check how your child is responding to their medication and to make any changes if needed.

Sometimes, your GP might request an earlier review. This could happen if your child is experiencing side effects or if the medication is not working as well as expected. In these situations, Clinical Partners may temporarily take over your child’s care again to help adjust or re-stabilise their treatment. Once things are back on track, their care can be safely handed back to the GP.

This flexible approach means responsibility is shared between your GP and Clinical Partners, depending on what your child needs at the time. Our priority is always to ensure your child’s treatment remains safe, effective, and personalised.

You may need to see your child's GP for physical check-ups, such as blood pressure or weight monitoring, as part of their medication management. These appointments help ensure your child's health is not negatively affected by the medication.

Titration appointments

Your clinician may recommend further appointments for your child, with follow-up psychiatry appointments costing £310 for 50 minutes and £225 for 30 minutes. Depending on the circumstances, we might recommend follow-up appointments with a nurse prescriber priced at £225 for 50 minutes and £165 for 30 minutes.

If we recommend medication, all admin fees will be included in the cost of your child's follow-up appointment, but the cost of the medication will not be included.

Six-monthly review

A review appointment with a non-medical prescriber is £165 and £225 with a psychiatrist.

Medication

You will need to pay the cost of the medication directly to the pharmacy, which will vary depending on the prescription.

Repeat prescription admin fee

There is a £75 monthly admin fee for repeat prescriptions without a follow-up appointment. This covers the cost of preparing the prescription and tracked postage to the pharmacy. It does not include the cost of the medication itself.

Your child's prescription will be sent directly to one of our online pharmacy providers. They will deliver the medication to your home address.

No. In the UK, ADHD medication must be initially prescribed by a specialist, typically a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD clinic.

Once your child is stabilised on medication, their GP, if they agree to shared care, will continue to prescribe your medication and monitor your child's physical health for the duration of their treatment. If the GP doesn't accept shared care, you can choose to continue to see your child's Clinical Partners clinician.

You and your child will see a Clinical Partners clinician twice a year for a comprehensive review, whether your GP accepts shared care or you remain with us.

Your child or young person's initial appointment will last around 50 minutes. During this time, the clinician will get to know your child, their symptoms, and their health background so they can safely explore the treatment options with you.

They will ask about:

• the symptoms they're experiencing, where they occur, and how they affect their daily life, including their concentration, focus, organisation and activity levels at home and at school
• their medical history, including any heart conditions, seizures, tics, or other neurological issues
• their current medication and any family history of heart problems
  
• their psychiatric history and current mental health
• the preferences for treatment, their goals and what you both hope to achieve from ADHD medication to help personalise your child's care

You’ll also need to bring up-to-date readings of their blood pressure, pulse, height, and weight.

The clinician will talk through medication options with you, including how they work, possible side effects, and why regular monitoring is important. If it’s safe to do so, and you, and your young person depending on their age, give consent, they may start your child on a low dose with a clear follow-up plan.

Your child or young person's titration review is their first follow-up appointment after starting medication. It may take up to 30 minutes. It’s helpful to write down anything you want to discuss in advance.

Please be ready to talk about:

• any side effects you or your child have noticed
• any changes in your child’s ADHD symptoms, including focus, mood, sleep, or appetite
• how the medication is affecting your child’s everyday life
• any recent changes to your child’s health or any new medications they’ve started

We will usually also ask you to complete a questionnaire in advance to help assess their symptoms. This helps your clinician decide whether the current medication and dose is right or needs adjusting.

You must also bring your child's updated blood pressure, pulse, and weight readings to this appointment. Without them, the clinician will not be able to issue another prescription.

Follow-up appointments last up to 30 minutes. The clinician will:

• check how your child's ADHD symptoms are and whether anything has changed
• ask how medication is affecting your child's daily life
• review how well the medication is working and how long its effects last
• discuss any side effects your child may be experiencing
• check your child's blood pressure, pulse, and weight – these must be up to date, as the clinician can’t issue a prescription without them
• review your child's medication routine (when they take it and whether they're missing any doses)
• decide together whether to adjust your dose, change medication, or manage any side effects

It’s a good idea to write down any concerns beforehand so you can make the most of your time with their clinician.

At your child’s first medication appointment, the clinician will revisit their medical and family history in detail.

Sometimes, based on this information, we may ask your child to complete a few additional checks before starting ADHD medication. These might include:

• an ECG (to check your child’s heart rhythm)
• a blood test
• a letter or report from another specialist already involved in their care

These checks help us make sure that any treatment we recommend is safe and appropriate for your child. ADHD medication is well-researched and widely used, but every child is different, and we want to take every step to ensure that the treatment plan is right for them.

Your child’s safety and wellbeing is our top priority. These extra steps are simply part of making sure we are giving them the best possible care.

Follow-up appointments typically last between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on how much needs to be reviewed.

If your child is doing well on their medication and no changes are needed, the appointment may be shorter. If the clinician needs to explore side effects or consider changes to your child's dose, it may take a little longer.

The six-monthly review checks that your child's medication is still right for them. The clinician will:

• assess whether your child's ADHD symptoms are being managed effectively
• check for any changes to your child’s physical or mental health, or any new medications they’ve started
• discuss any recent life changes (like exams, new teachers, or a change in school) that may be affecting their symptoms
• review your child's latest blood pressure, weight, and pulse
• talk through any concerns or questions you and your child may have

We will usually also ask you to complete a questionnaire in advance to help assess your child's symptoms. This helps your clinician decide whether the current medication and dose is right or needs adjusting. This helps ensure your child's treatment remains safe, effective, and tailored to their current needs.

Shared care is a formal agreement between your child's GP and the specialist provider who is monitoring or treating their condition. In this instance, the agreement will allow us to manage your child's titration appointments.

Once your child is stabilised on the medication, their GP will monitor their physical health. However, we will invite you and your child back at least twice per year for a comprehensive review with a specialist clinician. This is why it's called a shared care agreement.

If your GP agrees to a shared care arrangement, you will still need to attend regular follow-up appointments with Clinical Partners to make sure your child’s medication remains safe and effective.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Two medication reviews per year
  These cost £165 with a non-medical prescriber or £225 with a psychiatrist.
• NHS prescription charges
  These apply to each prescription, but are currently free for children under 16, and for young people aged 16 to 18 who are in full-time education.
• No monthly admin fees
  Under shared care, there are no extra monthly charges for issuing prescriptions.

Sometimes, a psychiatrist may need to carry out the review if your child’s presentation is more complex or requires specialist input. This might be the case if:

• there are significant changes in symptoms
• the medication needs adjusting or switching
• additional clinical decisions or investigations are needed

We’ll always let you know in advance if a specialist appointment is required. Our goal is to make sure your child receives the right level of care at the right time.

Yes, you and your child will still have six-monthly check-ups with us to review their overall treatment. If adjustments to your child's medication are needed, the clinician will manage those changes.

The agreement will usually stay in place unless your child's condition changes and they require additional treatment or support. For example, if there are significant changes in someone's health, they may be returned to specialist care for closer monitoring and adjustment.

If your child's GP is unable to enter a shared care agreement with us, we can still support your child's ongoing care through our private medication titration service. This means:

• Your child will receive monthly repeat prescriptions, charged at £75 each (medication cost not included)
• You and your child will need to attend six-monthly medication reviews
• Review appointments cost £165 with a non-medical prescriber or £225 with a psychiatrist

Before each monthly prescription, you’ll need to provide your child's up-to-date height, weight, pulse, and blood pressure. If you have questions about how this works, we’re happy to guide you through the process.

If you still wish to pursue shared care for your child, we recommend speaking with your child's GP directly to understand their reasons. They may offer an alternative arrangement, or you might choose to register with a GP who is open to shared care.

We are actively working with suppliers and the appropriate pharmaceutical companies to resolve any issues relating to medication shortages. We are hopeful that supply will be restored soon. Please rest assured that we are doing everything in our power to speed up this process and minimise disruption to your treatment.

We know this situation may be challenging, but there are steps you can take—and we’re here to support you along the way.

Speak with your clinician

If your child is affected by the shortage, please contact us. We’ll help you explore safe alternatives or adjustments to their treatment plan.

Check with your local pharmacy

Some pharmacies may still have limited stock, so it’s worth calling around regularly. Your pharmacist may also suggest a safe alternative if your usual brand is unavailable.

Consider medication breaks (where appropriate)

If your child takes methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, it may be possible to stretch the medication by skipping doses on days it’s less needed (like weekends or during school holidays). These medications are safe to take breaks from, but please speak to your clinician before making any changes.

Switching to a generic version

If your child takes methylphenidate, we may switch them from a branded version to a generic one to improve availability. This is a safe change and won’t affect how the medication works.

Keep others informed

Letting school, family, or others involved in your child’s care know about the situation can help them offer extra support, especially if symptoms become more noticeable during this time.

Use coping strategies

Think back to what helped your child manage before starting medication. Revisiting familiar routines, strategies, or tools can be a big help while waiting for supplies to stabilise.

Stay updated

We’ll continue to share updates as we receive them. If you’re unsure or need more advice, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.