ADHD Medications
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can affect concentration, organisation, and self-control. For many people, medication plays an important role in managing these symptoms.
What Can ADHD Medications Do?
ADHD medicines help balance brain chemicals that influence attention and behaviour. They do not cure ADHD, but they can:
- Improve focus: Making it easier to finish tasks and follow instructions.
- Reduce impulsivity: Helping with self-control and decision-making.
- Lower hyperactivity: Supporting calm and steady energy levels.
Medication is most effective when combined with behavioural strategies such as counselling, lifestyle changes, and good sleep and nutrition.
Benefits of ADHD Medications
Medication can bring many positive changes, such as:
- Better school or work performance
- Improved relationships with family and friends
- Greater self-esteem and emotional well-being
- More predictable daily routines
Many people find they can focus better and feel calmer, making other therapies and skills training more effective.
Types of ADHD Medications
ADHD affects focus, behaviour, and emotional regulation. Many people benefit from a combined plan that includes pharmacological treatments (medications) and non-pharmacological or psychosocial supports.
Pharmacological Treatments
Pharmacological treatments are prescription medicines designed to reduce core ADHD symptoms—inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity—while improving daily functioning.
They are tailored to each individual after a thorough health assessment and a discussion of benefits and potential side effects.
For more information, visit Healthdirect – ADHD medicines.
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are usually the first-line treatment for ADHD. They are well studied and often provide quick improvements in concentration, self-control, and activity levels.
Common stimulants include:
- Methylphenidate (short-acting and long/extended release), such as Ritalin® and Concerta®
- Dextroamphetamine
- Lisdexamfetamine, usually long-acting, such as Vyvanse®
If one formulation does not work well or causes side effects, another can be tried.
Possible side effects: mild appetite loss, sleep disturbance, stomach upset, headaches, or minor increases in heart rate or blood pressure. Most side effects are manageable with dose adjustments.
Non-Stimulant / Alternative Medications
If stimulants are not suitable, non-stimulant medicines may be used alone or together with stimulants. These include:
- Atomoxetine (Strattera®): a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor
- Guanfacine (Intuniv®): can assist with emotional regulation
- Clonidine (Kapvay®): sometimes added if sleep or aggression issues are present
These medications usually act more gradually and can take several weeks to reach full effect.
Prescribing and Regulation in Australia
ADHD medicines are prescription-only and carefully regulated:
- Authorised prescribers: Paediatricians and psychiatrists traditionally prescribe these medicines. Some states now allow specially trained GPs to initiate or continue prescriptions in defined circumstances.
- Controlled medicines: Stimulants are Schedule 8 (controlled) drugs and require special state or territory permits.
- Individualised dosing: Treatment starts with a low dose, adjusted (titrated) step by step to achieve the best balance of symptom relief and minimal side effects.
Doctors also assess heart health, checking blood pressure, family history of cardiac disease, and any warning signs such as fainting or chest pain.
For more details, see the Australian ADHD Clinical Practice Guideline – Pharmacological treatments factsheet.
Monitoring and Follow-Up
Safe and effective use of ADHD medication requires regular review:
- Frequent check-ins during the first few weeks to fine-tune the dose
- Ongoing reviews every 3–6 months to check blood pressure, heart rate, and (for children) growth and weight
- Discussion of progress at school, work, and home
Always store medicines safely and never share them with others.
Non-Pharmacological / Psychosocial Interventions
Medication is not the only treatment. Australian guidelines recommend multimodal treatment, which involves combining medication with non-pharmacological care whenever possible.
Behavioural Interventions
Parent/Family Training
Parent and family training provides practical skills to support children and teens with ADHD. It is not about correcting poor parenting. Instead, it helps families respond to ADHD-specific challenges.
- What it involves: Training sessions with parents or carers focus on routines, positive reinforcement, and strategies to reduce stress and conflict.
- Age groups:
- Families of children under 5 years should be offered parent/family training.
- Families of children aged 5–17 years should also receive training, with more intensive programs when ADHD is combined with oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder.
- Benefits: Improved family relationships, smoother daily routines, and better school behaviour.
- More information: AADPA – Non-pharmacological interventions
Behavioural Therapy for Children
This includes classroom management and structured school programs.
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive-behavioural interventions are structured psychological programs that help children, adolescents, and adults reduce the impact of ADHD on everyday functioning.
- How it works: Combines behavioural strategies (such as environmental organisation and habit-building) with cognitive techniques like problem-solving and cognitive restructuring.
- Impact: While symptom reduction may occur, the greatest benefits are in organisation, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.
- Who it helps:
- Children aged 5–12 years: CBI may be offered to improve functioning at school and home.
- Adolescents and adults: CBI should be offered to support independence, relationships, and work or study performance.
- Additional advantages: Helps manage co-existing issues such as anxiety, depression, autism, or substance use disorders.
Coaching, Skills Training, and Psychoeducation
ADHD Coaching
ADHD coaching is a newer, practical approach that complements cognitive-behavioural strategies.
- Purpose: Helps individuals develop everyday skills in time management, planning, goal setting, and self-motivation.
- Method: Uses lived experience and personalised strategies to improve organisation and follow-through.
- Who benefits: Particularly valuable for adolescents and adults, including students, professionals, and parents balancing multiple responsibilities.
Skills Training
Social skills and emotional regulation strategies.
Psychoeducation
Helps families and individuals understand ADHD, set realistic expectations, and identify strengths. Learn more at ADHD Foundation Australia and Bluewater Health.
Lifestyle and Holistic Supports
Medication works best when combined with healthy habits and supportive therapies:
- Balanced meals and regular exercise
- Consistent sleep routines
- Organisational tools such as planners and reminders
- Behavioural therapy, coaching, or counselling
Parents, teachers, and employers can also play an important role in creating supportive environments.
Sometimes, adjunctive therapeutic supports include social skills training and emotional regulation therapy. ADHD Foundation Australia
Working Together for Best Outcomes
Treatment planning is individualised. Some people start with medication plus behavioural support; others may begin with non-pharmacological methods, adding medication later if needed. The choice depends on symptom severity, service availability, cost, and personal preference.
Costs and Access
ADHD medicines require a prescription and may be subsidised under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) if certain conditions are met. Your doctor or pharmacist can explain the costs, repeat prescriptions, and PBS paperwork.
Starting ADHD Medication
Beginning ADHD medicine involves several steps to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Assessment and Prescription
Your doctor will perform a thorough medical and mental health assessment. They will ask about your symptoms, general health, and any other medicines you use. A treatment plan is then created, starting with a low dose.
Titration and Adjustment
The dose is slowly increased (“titration”) until symptoms improve and side effects are minimal. Regular check-ups, often every few weeks, are essential during this phase.
Ongoing Review
Once a stable dose is reached, reviews are usually every 3–6 months. Your doctor checks your weight, blood pressure, and heart rate, and discusses your progress at school, work, or home.
Possible Side Effects of ADHD Medications
Like all medicines, ADHD medications can have side effects. These vary depending on the medicine and the person.
Common stimulant side effects:
- Decreased appetite or weight loss
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Stomach aches or headaches
- Mild increase in heart rate or blood pressure
Common non-stimulant side effects:
- Tiredness or sleepiness
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Mood changes
Most side effects are mild and improve over time or with dose adjustments. Contact your doctor if side effects persist, worsen, or affect daily life.
Safety and Precautions
- Medical history: Inform your doctor of any heart problems, mental health conditions, or other chronic illnesses.
- Interactions: Provide a list of all other medicines or supplements you take.
- Storage: Keep medicines in their original packaging, in a safe place out of children’s reach.
- Driving and work: Some people may need time to adjust before driving or operating machinery.
Never share your medication with others, and only use it as prescribed.
When to Contact Your Doctor?
Call your doctor or pharmacist if you notice:
- New or worsening side effects
- Sudden mood or behaviour changes
- Chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath
- Little or no improvement after several weeks
Never stop or change your dose without medical advice.