What are the medication options?
There are two main types of ADHD medication:
- Stimulant medication
- Non-stimulant medication.
What is stimulant medication for ADHD?
Stimulant medication is usually the first medication offered for ADHD. It does not give children more energy. Instead, it helps the parts of the brain responsible for attention, self-control and organisation work more effectively.
Stimulant medications licensed for children and young people with ADHD include:
- Methylphenidate
- Lisdexamfetamine
These medicines can help reduce difficulties with attention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Every child responds differently, so we will work with you to find the most suitable medication and dose for your child.
Are there any side effects?
Like all medicines, stimulant medication can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild, temporary and can often be managed by adjusting the dose or medication.
Common side effects include:
- Reduced appetite, particularly around lunchtime
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Headaches
- Stomach aches or nausea
- Feeling more emotional or irritable as the medication wears off
- Occasionally feeling more anxious, restless or experiencing changes in mood
We will monitor your child regularly and work closely with you to manage any side effects that occur.
Key messages:
- Most side effects are mild and temporary.
- Regular monitoring helps ensure medication remains safe and effective.
- If side effects occur, adjusting the dose or trying a different medication can often help.
- If one medication does not work well, there are other treatment options available.
What if stimulants don't work for my child?
(Non-stimulant medication)
Stimulant medications work well for many children and young people with ADHD, but they are not the right choice for everyone. If stimulant medication is not suitable, causes troublesome side effects, or does not provide enough benefit, we may consider a non-stimulant medication.
Non-stimulant medications used to treat ADHD include:
- Atomoxetine
- Guanfacine
These medicines work differently from stimulants and may be particularly helpful for some children and young people, including those who experience significant side effects from stimulants or who have other health needs that need to be considered.
Non-stimulant medications often take longer to start working, sometimes several weeks, so improvements may be more gradual. As with all ADHD medications, we will monitor your child's progress closely and work with you to find the treatment that best meets their needs.