About ADHD medication for adults

Everyone has a different response to medication. Often it is helpful to reflect on which ADHD symptoms have been the most challenging for you and to consider whether these have improved. Your 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:

• it is easier to concentrate

• you feel less restless or overactive

• you feel calmer and more in control

Sometimes family, friends, or colleagues notice changes before you do and discussing this with them can be helpful. If you are not sure, ask your clinician who will help you review how you are feeling.

Most people notice changes within the first few days to a week, though it may take longer to find the right dosage and medication.

Improvements in focus, organisation, and emotional regulation may happen quickly or may take some time, but it’s important to remember that ADHD medication is just part of the solution—building new habits and routines alongside medication is key to long-term success.

Some adults choose to take ADHD medication only when they feel they need it most, such as during workdays, exams, or high-pressure situations. Some people also choose to take certain days of the week off medication.

However, for most people, consistent daily use leads to better long-term results.

It’s important to discuss your lifestyle and needs with your doctor to determine what’s best for you.

It’s common to hear that ADHD medications work well at first and then seem to lose effectiveness. This can happen due to tolerance, changes in your body’s response or changes in the things going on around you.

If this happens, your clinician can adjust your dosage, switch medications or consider other strategies that might be helpful.

Don’t feel discouraged if one medication doesn’t work long-term — there are many options, and finding the right one can take time.

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

• loss of appetite

• changes to sleep pattern

Other possible side effects include:

• jitteriness or restlessness

• irritability or mood changes

• headaches or stomach aches

• increased heart rate or blood pressure

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

If side effects don’t improve, your clinician may adjust the dose or suggest a different medication.

Your clinician will explain possible side effects before you start. If you notice anything that concerns you, please get in touch.

Side effects are also more likely in those that are taking other medications or who have other health conditions so discussing this with your clinician is crucial.

If you are worried about a particular side effect, please discuss this with your clinician before starting medication and this can be taken into account.

If you experience side effects, please contact our team. Your clinician may need to review your medication or adjust the dose. For severe side effects, we recommend calling 111 for advice.

If you notice any side effects, please contact our team so we can support you. Your clinician may need to review your medication or adjust the dose to help manage the symptoms.

Some side effects can improve after a few days but if they persist, exploring this with your clinician to ensure that there is the correct balance between benefits and side effects is important.

If you experience severe or worrying side effects, we recommend calling NHS 111 for immediate advice.

ADHD medication, like methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine (the first medicines clinicians usually try), come in different forms. You might take it as a tablet or capsule. 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 you and how to take it.

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

If you're planning to travel and take your ADHD medication with you, there are a few important things to be aware of. Because these are controlled medications, some countries have strict rules about what you can bring in and the paperwork you’ll need to carry.

Here’s how to prepare:

• You may need a letter from your prescriber to confirm your medication and dosage.

• Some countries, including those in the Schengen area, may ask for a special certificate.

• Each country has its own rules, so it's important to check with the embassy of the country you're visiting before you travel.

• You can find general information on GOV.UK.

If you need a letter from Clinical Partners, please give us at least 10 working days to prepare this for you. If your GP is prescribing your medication, you’ll need to request the letter from them directly.

We know organising medication for travel can feel like a lot. We’re here to help make it as straightforward as possible.

You must tell the DVLA if ADHD or your ADHD medication affects your ability to drive safely, and you can discuss this with your clinician.

The DVLA may ask for a doctor’s report and could review your licence from time to time.

It is important to:

• follow your prescribed treatment

• tell the DVLA if your condition or medication changes

If you do not tell them, you could face a fine or problems with your insurance.

You can read more at GOV.UK - ADHD and Driving.