ADHD Medications

ADHD Medications: Controlled Drugs

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects an individual’s ability to focus, control impulses, and regulate their behaviour. One of the most effective treatment options for managing ADHD symptoms is medication. Some of these medications are classified as controlled drugs in the UK due to their potential for misuse and dependency.

Types of ADHD Medications

ADHD medications can be broadly classified into two categories: stimulants and non-stimulants. Controlled substances primarily fall under the stimulant category.

  1. Stimulants:

    • Methylphenidate-based medications (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta, Equasym)

    • Amphetamine-based medications (e.g., Amfexa, Elvanse)

    These medications are the most commonly prescribed for ADHD due to their effectiveness in improving focus, reducing hyperactivity, and enhancing impulse control. They work by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters (dopamine and norepinephrine) in the brain.

  2. Non-Stimulants:

    • Atomoxetine (Strattera): This medication is not classified as a controlled substance and may be prescribed if stimulant medications are not suitable or effective.

    • Guanfacine (Intuniv): These can also be prescribed for ADHD, often as adjunct treatments or for individuals who cannot tolerate stimulants.

Why Are ADHD Stimulant Medications Controlled?

Stimulant medications for ADHD are classified as controlled substances under the UK’s Misuse of Drugs Act due to their potential for misuse, addiction, or diversion. These medications have the potential to cause a feeling of euphoria or “high” in some individuals, which can lead to their misuse. As such, these drugs are carefully regulated, and a prescription from a registered healthcare professional is required.

How Controlled ADHD Medications Work

Stimulant medications work by enhancing the brain's activity in areas responsible for attention and impulse control. They help individuals with ADHD to focus better, control impulses, and regulate behaviour, improving overall functioning in both educational and social environments.

Important Considerations and Risks

  1. Side Effects: While effective, controlled ADHD medications can have side effects such as insomnia, appetite suppression, headaches, or irritability. These should be monitored by a healthcare provider.

  2. Misuse and Dependence: As controlled substances, these medications carry a risk of misuse. It's crucial for individuals taking these medications to follow the prescribed dosage and adhere to medical guidance to minimise the risk of dependence.

  3. Regular Monitoring: People using controlled ADHD medications should have regular check-ins with their healthcare provider to ensure the medication is working effectively and to manage any side effects or concerns.

  4. Legality: Possessing controlled ADHD medications without a prescription or using them in a manner other than prescribed is illegal. Misuse can lead to serious legal consequences in the UK.

  5. Alternatives: For those concerned about the potential for misuse, non-stimulant medications may be an option. These medications typically carry a lower risk for misuse but may take longer to show full effects.

Please follow the below links for more information

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Medicines Information for Families

Why might medicines be used?

Medicines can be an important part of treatment for some children and young people. They are usually considered when a mental health condition is having a significant impact on daily life; when other approaches such as therapy or school support are not enough on their own; or when evidence shows medicines may help — for example with ADHD, anxiety, depression, mood, or sleep difficulties.

Medicines are never the only approach. They are always used alongside psychological and social support.

How decisions are made

•       A comprehensive assessment is always carried out before any prescription.

•       The benefits, risks, and alternatives are explained clearly before any medication is started.

•       Parents and carers give consent for treatment, and young people are included in decisions as much as possible.

•       You will always have the chance to ask questions before agreeing to start a medicine.

How prescriptions are issued

Medicines are prescribed only after consultation— never by text or email alone. Prescriptions are sent electronically to your nominated pharmacy.

•       Non-controlled medications are issued via Clynxx, integrated with our clinical records system (Carebit), and sent directly to your pharmacy.

•       Controlled medications (such as ADHD stimulants) are issued via Healistic, a secure encrypted prescribing platform, and sent directly to your pharmacy.

Requesting a repeat prescription

Repeat prescriptions are not automatic. Each prescription requires a clinical review. Established patients can request repeat prescriptions through our secure patient portal. All requests are reviewed by Dr Athina Zakynthinaki before any prescription is issued. Please allow at least 5 working days for processing.

Repeat prescriptions for controlled medications (such as methylphenidate) require a review appointment and cannot be requested via the portal alone.

Safety and monitoring

•       Before starting medication, physical checks (weight, blood pressure, or blood tests if needed) are usually requested from your GP.

•       Regular monitoring appointments ensure the medicine remains safe and effective.

•       You will be asked about side effects at every review.

•       For ADHD medications, monitoring is needed at least every 6 months.

•       Report any serious side effects to Dr Athina Zakynthinaki and, if urgent, to your GP, NHS 111, or emergency services.

Emergencies

This practice does not provide emergency prescribing or out-of-hours urgent care. If your child is unwell or you have urgent medication concerns: contact your GP; call NHS 111; or call 999 and go to A&E in an emergency or if you suspect an overdose.

Your responsibilities as parents and carers

•       Store all medicines safely, out of reach of children and young people.

•       Give medicines exactly as prescribed — do not adjust doses without speaking to us first.

•       Tell us about any side effects, allergies, or other medications your child takes.

•       Do not share medication with anyone else.

Questions or concerns

If you have any concerns about your child's medicines or treatment, please contact us:

•       Email: info@childpsychiatry.uk

•       Website: www.childpsychiatry.uk