Your doctor suggested ADHD medication, and your head’s already spinning. You’re worried it will change your personality, anxious at the waiting list, and don’t know where to begin. This treatment helps many ADHDers manage their symptoms. Let’s take a look at the basics you should know before you get started.

Types of ADHD Medication

Not all ADHD medication is created equal. When you’re starting your titration, it’s helpful to understand the two main categories this medication falls into:

Stimulant medications

These include methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine, and come under different brand names. They work quickly by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine in your brain. You'll notice effects within 30-90 minutes, and they can last up to 13 hours depending on the dosage.

Non-stimulant medications

Non-stimulant medications, such as atomoxetine and guanfacine, are slower. These tend to build up gradually over 4-6 weeks. They provide 24-hour coverage, but may be less effective than stimulants. Additionally, it’s harder to assess whether they are having an impact.

Benefits of ADHD Medication

When we talk about ADHD medication, it’s important to realise that each person is individual. What works for one person may have adverse effects on the other. There’s an element of trial and error, which many people find challenging — both physically and emotionally.

However, when it works, ADHD medication may help you to improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and help with task initiation. It can also reduce the risk of suicidal behaviours and drug misuse, according to recent research published in the British Medical Journal.

How Long Do You Need to Wait?

When you’ve decided ADHD medication is a good route, the wait begins. One of the biggest frustrations diagnosed ADHDers face is extended wait times across the UK and Ireland.

According to Psychiatry UK, you can expect to wait up to 10 months for medication titration after your initial ADHD assessment. Choosing a private service for your ADHD assessment can help to speed things up by getting you on that waiting list sooner rather than later.

Tips for Starting ADHD Medication

If you’re about to start trialing ADHD medication, here are some tips to help you out:

Work with Your Prescriber

Whichever route you go down, you’ll have a dedicated prescriber by your side. Make sure you work with them through this process. Be as honest and detailed as you can when sharing your medication experience. That way, they can accurately guide you along the way.

Take the Medication Consistently

While it’s not always easy to do so — thanks to organisation issues and time blindness — you should aim to take medication consistently. That means at the same time every day. Missing doses or taking them late can cause issues when assessing how effective it is.

Eat Before You Take a Stimulant

If you’re taking a stimulant, it’s wise to eat before you take your dose. This medication will decrease your appetite and can cause problems like nausea and stomach issues. Eating beforehand helps you to side-step some of these pitfalls.

Stay Hydrated and Limit Caffeine

Some ADHD medication will cause a dry mouth. Make sure you combat this problem by drinking plenty of water. If possible, you should also aim to drink less coffee (or caffeinated drinks) while you’re trialing the medication.

Speak Up About Side Effects

If you start experiencing some questionable side effects, talk to your prescriber immediately. Nothing you notice is too small to speak up about. You want to give them a full picture of how the medication is affecting you on a day to day basis.

Takeaway

Starting ADHD medication is one way to manage your symptoms, and may well be effective. However, it’s by no means the only option. Depending on your experience, you may also benefit from ADHD coaching, therapy, and lifestyle adjustments.