If you receive an ADHD diagnosis and medication is recommended, your clinician may suggest starting treatment to help manage your symptoms. Whether your assessment was with Clinical Partners or another NHS provider, you may be able to use our Right to Choose ADHD medication service. You will have support at every stage, and our specialist clinicians will clearly explain your options, providing you with safe, effective, and reliable care.
This Right to Choose ADHD medication information is for adults. If you're a parent, carer or young person looking for more information about Right to Choose ADHD medication, you can find out more here.
Right to Choose ADHD medication for children and young people
We offer an ADHD medication service through the NHS Right to Choose pathway. This includes titration and ongoing support for people who have been diagnosed with ADHD.
We can support you if you received an ADHD diagnosis and medication was clinically recommended – even if your diagnosis was made by another provider, as long as your report meets clinical standards.
If you received an ADHD diagnosis from us and medication was clinically recommended, we’ll contact you by email to offer you a place on our waiting list.
If your diagnosis was made by another provider, you will need to ask your GP to make a referral to us along with your report. If your GP would like more information, please direct them to our information for GPs.
To find the optimal medication to help you effectively manage your symptoms, we start with titration. The goal of this process is to find the dose of medicine that controls your ADHD symptoms with the fewest side effects.
Titration ensures the medication is working effectively to manage ADHD symptoms, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
By gradually adjusting the dosage, healthcare professionals aim to minimise or manage side effects, such as insomnia, decreased appetite, or increased heart rate.
ADHD is not a one-size-fits-all condition. Titration will help us tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs.
If you were diagnosed by Clinical Partners and medication was clinically recommended, you will automatically be emailed to invite you to the wait list.
If you were diagnosed by another provider, your GP will need to make a referral to us. You can find more information for GPs here.
Once you reach the top of the waitlist, the team will reach out to book your appointment.
When we book your appointment, we will guide you through the process and ask a few simple questions about your mental and physical health, including cardiac screening, to make sure medication is safe and appropriate for you.
Your first appointment usually lasts about 50 minutes, and you will discuss your treatment goals, symptoms, and medication options with your specialist clinician. The clinician will also review any relevant physical health information, to ensure the medication is safe and appropriate for you. Please bring photo ID to your appointment.
Your clinician will also explore whether non-medication approaches might be helpful for you.
During these sessions, you will discuss with your clinician how you've responded to the medication, how effectively your symptoms are being managed, and whether you're experiencing any side effects. With this in mind, your clinician may then recommend a different dosage or medication until we find the right medication and dosage for you. Please bring photo ID to your appointment.
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.
Once you are stable on your medication having completed the titration process, you can either:
We will write to your GP to request shared care. This allows both your GP and our clinicians to support your ongoing treatment.
At least once a year, we will invite you back for a comprehensive review with an expert clinician, who will consider how you've responded to the medication and make any necessary adjustments.
This is a requirement whether you are accessing prescriptions through our service or via a shared care agreement.
When attending your ADHD medication appointments, you’ll need to show photo identification, such as a driving licence or passport.
This helps the clinician confirm your identity, keep you safe, and make sure the right medication is given to the right person.
Thank you for supporting safer, more secure care.
ADHD medication can help improve focus, reduce impulsive behaviours, and manage hyperactivity. For many people, it can make day-to-day tasks feel more achievable and ease feelings of overwhelm.
Medication is often one part of a wider support plan, helping individuals build confidence and make the most of their strengths.
Your clinician will also explore whether non-medication approaches might be helpful for you.
Side effects are possible with ADHD medications. They can range from decreased appetite and weight loss, to mood swings and sleeping problems. This is one of the reasons why titration is so important. By gradually adjusting the dosage, we aim to minimise and manage the possible side effects.
People with other medical conditions or pregnant people may require additional monitoring and support. Your clinician will always carefully balance the potential risks and side effects with the benefits.
There are two types of ADHD medications: stimulants, and non-stimulants. These work in different ways to help manage ADHD symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
The NICE guidelines emphasise that medication management should be tailored to the individual's needs and preferences, including their tolerance to different medications.
Stimulant medication: Stimulants are thought to affect how dopamine, a key chemical in the brain associated with pleasure, attention span and motivation, is processed.
Non-stimulant medication: Non-stimulants work by adjusting the levels of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain to help with managing the symptoms of ADHD.
Once you are stable on your medication having completed the titration process, you can either continue receiving NHS prescriptions through Clinical Partners or move to a shared care arrangement with your GP, if they agree.
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.
For more information about lifestyle changes and possible treatment options, take a look at our blog.
Access to Work is a government programme that helps people with health conditions or disabilities, including ADHD, stay in work or start a job.
They may help pay for:
You can find out more on the ADHD UK Access to Work page or by visiting the GOV.UK's Access to Work page.
There are lots of charities and organisations offering advice, support, and community connections:
Run by volunteers with lived experience. They offer peer support groups online and in person. Meetings cover ADHD symptoms, neurodiversity, and other health conditions that often occur alongside ADHD.
Offers guides, videos, podcasts, online support groups, and a directory of ADHD coaches.
Supports adults with ADHD through guides, coaching information, peer groups, and advocacy.
Provides online community forums, education, and awareness campaigns for adults with ADHD.
Offers articles, support group listings, creative sharing, and practical tips for managing ADHD.
A community for Black women and non-binary people with ADHD. They offer online meetups, workshops, and events.
Empowers women and girls with ADHD through workshops, mentoring, and awareness campaigns.
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:
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:
Other possible side effects include:
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:
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:
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.
To find the optimal medication to help you effectively manage your symptoms, we start with titration. The goal of this process is to find the dose of medicine that controls your 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.
While medication works well for many people with ADHD, others find non-medication strategies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), ADHD coaching, mindfulness, exercise, dietary advice and lifestyle adjustments extremely helpful. Many people find the best results come from a combination of medication, psychological support and behavioural strategies.
For more information about lifestyle changes and possible treatment options, take a look at our blog.
Initially during titration, your medication will be reviewed usually once a month.
Once you are on a stable dose of medication that you and your clinician agree on then we will review you at least once a year. We will invite you back for a comprehensive review with an expert clinician, who will consider how you've responded to the medication and make any necessary adjustments.
Updating your clinician with any other changes that may have occurred since your last appointment is always important to ensure that your ongoing treatment is optimised for you.
You may need to see your GP for physical check-ups, such as blood pressure or weight monitoring, as part of your medication management. These appointments help ensure your health is not negatively affected by the medication.
All costs are covered by the NHS.
Your prescription will usually be sent directly to one of our online pharmacy providers. They will deliver your medication to your home address and they will liaise with you if more information is required. Please note, most ADHD medications require a signature from you on delivery.
In most cases, no. In the UK, ADHD medication usually is initiated by a specialist, typically a psychiatrist or a specialist ADHD clinic.
Once you are stabilised on medication, your GP, if they agree to shared care, will take over the prescribing of your medication and monitor your physical health until your next review (usually annually). If your GP doesn't accept shared care, you would usually continue to see your Clinical Partners clinician though the frequency of review could reduce to once every 6 months.
Keep a journal of your symptoms, maintain a healthy diet and sleep routine, and regularly communicate with your clinician. You might want to let someone close to you know that you are starting medication so that they can support you if needed.
It can also help to set realistic expectations about the time it may take to find the right dosage or medication so that you do not feel rushed.
Your initial appointment will last around 50 minutes. During this time, the clinician will get to know you, your symptoms, and your health background so they can safely explore treatment options.
They will ask about:
You’ll also need to bring up-to-date readings of your 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 give consent, they may start you on a low dose with a clear follow-up plan.
On occasion, additional information may be required before a prescription can be issued. Our clinicians will work with you to ensure that this is managed as promptly as possible.
Your titration review is your 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:
You must also bring updated blood pressure, pulse, height and weight readings to this appointment. Without them, the clinician will not be able to issue another prescription.
At your first medication appointment, we’ll take time to revisit your medical and family history in detail.
Sometimes, based on what is discussed, your clinician may ask you to complete some extra checks before starting ADHD medication. This could include:
These checks are requested to help us make the best and safest decision for you. ADHD medication is generally very safe when used correctly, but for some people, additional information is needed to make sure it’s the right choice and won’t cause harm.
Your safety is our priority. These steps are in place to make sure that any treatment we recommend is both safe and suitable for you.
Follow-up appointments last up to 30 minutes. The clinician will:
It’s a good idea to write down any concerns beforehand so you can make the most of your time with the clinician.
Follow-up appointments typically last between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on how much needs to be reviewed.
If you're doing well on your medication and no changes are needed, the appointment may be shorter. If your clinician needs to explore side effects or consider changes to your dose, it may take a little longer.
The annual review checks that your medication is still right for you. The clinician will:
This helps ensure your treatment remains safe, effective, and tailored to your current needs.
We are required to check photo ID when prescribing controlled medications like ADHD prescriptions.
This is for your safety and to meet legal guidelines. It helps ensure:
Even though you may see the same clinician for each appointment, they’ll still need to check ID each time. A passport, driving licence, or any official photo ID is fine.
Shared care is a formal agreement between your GP and the specialist provider who is monitoring or treating your condition that your GP is willing to take over the prescribing and monitoring of your ADHD medication.
Once you are stabilised on the medication, and if your GP agrees to Shared Care then your GP will monitor your physical health and will issue your prescription. We will then invite you back at least once per year for a comprehensive review with a specialist clinician.
If you're receiving ADHD medication through shared care, you’ll usually have a full review every year with a specialist clinician at Clinical Partners. These reviews are important to make sure your medication is working well for you and to make any changes if needed.
Sometimes your GP might request an earlier review. This can happen if you're experiencing side effects or if your current medication doesn't seem to be helping. If that’s the case, Clinical Partners may temporarily take over your care again to help adjust or stabilise your treatment. Once your medication is working well again, your care can be handed back to your GP.
Shared care means that responsibility for your treatment is shared between Clinical Partners and your GP, depending on what’s needed at the time. The goal is to make sure your treatment stays safe, effective, and tailored to you.
Yes, you will still have annual check-ups with us to review your overall treatment. We understand that continuity of care is important and will always aim for your annual review to be with the clinician that undertook your titration. If adjustments to your medication are needed, your clinician will manage those changes.
The agreement will usually stay in place unless your condition changes and you require additional treatment or support or until you no longer require medication. 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 GP is unable to enter a shared care agreement with us, we can still support your ongoing care through our Right to Choose medication service. This means:
Before each monthly prescription, you’ll need to provide your 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, we recommend speaking with your 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.
