NHS Right to Choose ADHD medication for adults

ADHD medication can be incredibly effective, but it’s a personal decision.

If ADHD symptoms are impacting your daily life—whether it’s in your relationships, work, or personal tasks—medication could be a helpful tool.

Talk to your clinician about your concerns so you can make an informed decision.

Yes, ADHD medication can be beneficial no matter your age.

Many adults experience significant improvements in focus, productivity, emotional regulation and other areas after starting treatment.

While it’s common to feel a range of emotions about not being diagnosed earlier, medication can still make a meaningful difference in your daily life, work, and relationships.

Not necessarily. ADHD medication is a tool to help you manage your symptoms, but it doesn’t mean you’ll need it forever.

Some adults use medication long-term, while others find that they only need it during certain periods, such as high-stress work environments.

The goal is to give you more control over your symptoms, and you can always work with your clinician to adjust or stop the medication if it’s no longer needed.

Some people worry that ADHD medication will make them feel 'flat' or emotionless.

While it can improve focus and reduce impulsivity, which can lead to emotional changes, it shouldn’t numb your emotions. If you notice emotional changes that feel uncomfortable, talk to your clinician about adjusting the dose or trying a different medication.

ADHD medication primarily targets attention and impulsivity, but many adults report secondary improvements in anxiety and mood, especially when their ADHD symptoms are better managed.

However, ADHD medication isn’t a substitute for treating anxiety or depression, and some people may need additional treatment for these conditions.

ADHD medication can be taken in combination with other mental health medications but please always let your clinician know if you are taking these.

ADHD medications are not addictive when taken as prescribed, but they can lead to dependence if misused.

It’s important to work closely with your clinician to ensure you’re using the medication correctly.

Many adults find that medication helps them build better routines and focus, and over time, they may need less of it or even stop it entirely.

Your clinician will monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.

While medication is a powerful tool for many adults with ADHD, there are also non-medication strategies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), ADHD coaching, mindfulness, exercise, dietary advice and organisational tools or apps that can help.

Many people find the best results come from a combination of medication, psychological support and behavioural strategies.