Treating Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: ADHD Medications
If you suspect that you or your child is experiencing symptoms of ADHD, you may be wondering: Who diagnoses ADHD? And will I need medication to manage my or my child’s symptoms? While medication may be a part of an ADHD treatment plan for some children and adults, it is possible for other people with ADHD to manage their symptoms with behavioral therapy and lifestyle alterations alongside—or, sometimes, instead of—medication.
Your healthcare provider and care team may suggest medication if ADHD is affecting your ability to function. However, it is not the only option.
What are the most common symptoms of ADHD in children and adults?
Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD in children and adults include:
- Being easily distracted or having a short attention span
- Difficulty with time management, such as failing to meet deadlines, double-booking appointments, or frequent lateness
- Being known as someone who often talks excessively
- Experiencing frequent mood swings
- Difficulty starting or following through on tasks, even ones they enjoy
- Finding it difficult to enjoy quiet leisure activities and relax
If you believe that you or your child is experiencing symptoms of ADHD, consider making an appointment with your primary care provider. Early diagnosis and treatment can be beneficial when managing ADHD symptoms long-term. Some people wait before addressing concerns with their doctor, which may delay diagnosis and valuable treatment.
Bring any questions or concerns to your appointment to ensure a productive conversation with your or your child’s doctor about ADHD.
What medication options are available for ADHD treatment?
During your diagnosis and treatment, your doctor may suggest medication for your ADHD symptoms. There are two groups (or classes) of ADHD medications: Stimulants and nonstimulants.
Stimulant ADHD medications increase levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals that help brain cells communicate with each other) to reduce symptoms like distractibility, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Stimulant drugs may be prescribed first because they are proven effective in as many as 70% of children and adults with ADHD. They often come in both immediate-release and extended-release varieties. Typically, immediate-release medication wears off more quickly.
If stimulant medication doesn’t effectively manage ADHD symptoms, or if you are advised against taking stimulant medications, your ADHD care team may suggest a nonstimulant medication or another form of symptom management support, like therapy.
Nonstimulants medications also target neurochemicals, like norepinephrine and dopamine, to improve focus and impulse control in those who are diagnosed with ADHD.
ADHD medication for children can take different forms, such as pills or patches, and a doctor may adjust it over time to ensure the best adherence. Exploring all options with your doctor can help you choose the treatment plan that is most appropriate for your child.
In an effort to determine the best treatment strategy, some people with ADHD end up trying a few medications and dosages before finding the right medication for their specific symptoms. Potential side effects like stomach pain, trouble sleeping, and irregular heartbeat should be discussed with your doctor. Each person is different, and some people may also benefit from therapy in combination with medication. It can be important to keep in mind that no medication will “cure” ADHD. Instead, ADHD drugs are generally intended to make symptoms more manageable.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended for any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content is providing generalized information, not specific for one individual. You should not take any action without consulting with a qualified medical professional. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through Uplift. Learn more about medication management here.
How to talk to your doctor about ADHD medications, stimulants, side effects, and more
Before you start taking any medication for child or adult ADHD, familiarizing yourself with the instructions for usage provided by your doctor and pharmacy can be helpful. Below are a few questions to ask your doctor about how to take your prescription medication:
- Do I take it every day?
- How many times a day?
- What time of day?
- Do I need to take it with or without food?
- Is there anything I can't eat or drink while I'm on it?
- What should I do if I miss a dose?
Other questions to ask your doctor may include the following.
Why have you chosen this medication for the treatment of ADHD symptoms?
With various ADHD medications available, your doctor may have made their recommendation based on your or your child’s particular needs, habits, preexisting conditions, etc. You may ask your doctor to explain why they chose the medication they did to ensure the medication you’re prescribed targets your symptoms and wasn’t only chosen because it is the most frequently prescribed. However, frequently prescribed medications may be prescribed more often because they are effective for larger groups of people.
How does this ADHD medication work in addressing the symptoms?
Some ADHD medications work differently. Understanding how your medication works can help you make an informed decision when working with your doctor to choose which one you take or whether you want to take medication at all.
How is the medication titrated?
Some medications are recommended to be titrated slowly. Titration means increasing or decreasing the dosage in small increments at a time until the goal dose is reached. With some medications, you may begin taking them at the goal dose. With others, you may start with a low dose and gradually increase. If you wish to stop taking the medication, you may be recommended by your doctor to decrease the dosage slowly to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor before stopping medication or going up in your dosage, as doing so on your own may have risks.
What is the time frame until the medication shows effects and begins to treat ADHD symptoms?
Some people want to know the average amount of time it takes for a medication to work. Certain medications can take longer than others, so an honest discussion about the time frame can increase understanding.
Another time factor you may discuss is how long you might be on the medication overall. Will it become a part of your routine for the long term? Or is it a short-term medication?
What are the side effects of this medication?
Side effects may be minor or serious. Ask your doctor about common side effects, so you know what to expect, and more severe side effects, so you know when to seek help. If you know a certain side effect is common, you may be less confused or stressed if it manifests. Below are some of the most common ADHD medication side effects that can happen:
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Mood swings
- Decreased appetite
- Irritability
- Changes in behavior
- Feeling restless or jittery
- Changes in mood
- Racing heartbeat
- Tics
Certain ADHD medications may worsen ADHD symptoms for some. Work closely with your care team and let them know how you’re feeling on your medication and whether you notice a change in your symptoms. Side effects can differ for each individual, and the side effects that are tolerable for one person might be intolerable for another.
What happens if I stop taking ADHD medication like stimulants?
Medications for ADHD and other conditions can cause withdrawal-type symptoms if you stop taking them suddenly. Ask your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of a medication before you decide to begin or stop taking it.
What can I do to help ADHD medications work better and improve my mental health?
Certain lifestyle changes may help someone effectively manage ADHD symptoms and may be a positive addition to one’s ADHD treatment plan. The following lifestyle choices may impact how well ADHD medications work:
- Getting enough sleep
- Eating healthy foods
- Drinking enough water
- Exercising regularly
- Getting fresh air every day
- Maintaining a positive attitude
How will the ADHD medication be monitored?
Your or your child's doctor may ask to see you regularly while taking the medication. You might also be referred for blood tests or other tests to ensure that the medication isn't affecting your overall health. Discuss these and any other ways of monitoring your health while you're on medication.
Do not take ADHD medication in lower or higher doses than what has been prescribed to you by your doctor. It is not advised to stop or adjust your medication without first discussing with your doctor, as it may be risky or harmful.
Is medication the only option, or should I try therapy?
Medication for children and adults is typically not the only support option. Talk therapy and behavior therapy may also provide tools and coping mechanisms for managing symptoms of ADHD. If your child has ADHD, their teacher, guidance counselor, or school support team may also be able to offer accommodation and guidance. You or your child may benefit from learning self-calming exercises, yoga, mindfulness meditation, or deep breathing techniques. Medication and other treatment options used simultaneously may be more effective than medication on its own.
Considering a complete treatment plan for the ADHD diagnosis
ADHD medication may be only part of the treatment plan. Talking to your doctor about medication can be a step, but you can also ask how it fits into the overall treatment plan. Some people with ADHD also experience other conditions, such as learning disabilities or mood disorders like anxiety or depression. You or your child may benefit from a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses co-occurring disorders as well. If your child is being treated, there may be designated assistance for them at school.
The benefits of therapy to treat ADHD symptoms
Your doctor might also suggest that you or your child begin therapy as a part of the treatment plan. As a person with ADHD, you might find new practical concerns every day, and therapy can give you strategies to deal with practical dilemmas such as:
- Getting organized
- More effectively managing your time
- Working with your child's teachers or your boss
- Improving your sleep habits
- Managing finances
Building positivity
One way therapy may help individuals is by guiding them in building a positive mindset and creating a problem-solving approach to ADHD symptom management. Positive coping strategies to handle the challenges that often come with ADHD can be a benefit on top of medication and help you move forward with confidence.
Increasing motivation
Another benefit of therapy for ADHD is that it may teach you to challenge negative beliefs about your abilities and personal characteristics. When you reinforce the positive within you, you may be able to build the motivation to increase your skills and personal growth.
Dealing with related mental health concerns
People with ADHD are often diagnosed with related mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. These conditions may be caused by the stress of living with challenging symptoms or availability barriers, or they may come as side effects of ADHD medications. Either way, dealing with these challenges via treatment may help you make positive changes in your life.
Therapy for ADHD
If your ADHD is causing you to doubt yourself, present practical challenges in life that you struggle to solve on your own, or giving rise to anxiety or depression, therapy may be a useful tool. You can begin therapy through your health insurance plan, at a clinic, or with a licensed therapist through an online platform.
In select states, BetterHelp works with certain insurance plans to provide coverage for eligible members; when covered, co-pays average about $23/week. Check in-network status on the BetterHelp site or your plan’s directory. *Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with certain insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and availability.
When sessions are covered, members typically pay an average copay of about $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site. Coverage varies by state and provider availability.
Evaluation of online therapy
Online therapy can have several perks. This treatment format is often more available for participants, since there’s no requirement to travel for an appointment. In addition, it may be more affordable, allowing clients to get therapy more often.
With a therapist, you can create a treatment plan that’s tailored specifically to you and your symptoms—and continue down the path toward improved mental health.
BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through UpLift—including assessments, medication management*, and treatment planning—allowing users to connect with licensed psychiatric professionals remotely. These care options, when combined with psychotherapy, can serve as the primary components of a holistic treatment plan. It’s important to note that controlled substances are not available through BetterHelp’s psychiatric services. However, non-controlled substances and other approaches may be utilized to manage ADHD symptoms, as deemed necessary by the professional providing care.
*Medication availability and coverage may vary by member location, clinical appropriateness, and individual pharmacy/insurance benefits. Prescribing decisions are made by the treating clinicians. We do not guarantee that any specific medication will be prescribed or covered by a member’s insurance plan.
Online psychiatric care can reduce the wait times that are often associated with treatment. With UpLift, users wait an average of 2.6 days before their first appointment, which is significantly less than the national average wait time of 2+ months. Additionally, many of the platform’s providers are in-network with major insurance carriers, potentially making online psychiatric treatment more affordable (eligible members pay an average copay of $20).
Takeaway
Living a quality life with ADHD is very possible. Discussing medications with your doctor can help clarify concerns and inform you about your options. At your first appointment, take notes and be ready to ask questions to find out more about your options. With help, you can thrive at school, work, and other arenas.
How do I explain my ADHD symptoms to my doctor?
Before your appointment, it can be helpful to make a list of symptoms you’re experiencing, as well as questions you’d like to ask your doctor. Let them know you think you’re living with ADHD. They will likely refer you to a mental health professional who can conduct a thorough evaluation, diagnose ADHD (or another disorder, as symptoms of ADHD can overlap with those of other mental disorders), and offer treatment, such as a licensed therapist or a psychiatrist.
What do I do if I think I have ADHD? How can I get a mental health disorder diagnosis?
If you think you have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, start by taking note of the reasons behind your belief and schedule a session with your primary care provider. They may refer you to a mental health professional who can determine whether you have ADHD by comparing your symptoms to the diagnostic criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
What do you say in an adult ADHD consultation or evaluation?
Before your evaluation, make a list of the symptoms you’re currently experiencing, as well as any symptoms you experienced as a child or teenager. The professional who is running your consultation will generally guide the conversation and ask you various questions about your symptoms, experiences, and personality. In some cases, they may also interview close family members or friends about any symptoms they’ve observed in you. Sometimes, you may be asked to complete neurophysiological tests that can evaluate how well your brain works. Once you’ve received a diagnosis, it’s typically time to begin treatment.
Does BetterHelp offer psychiatry and medication management?
Yes. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services through Uplift. BetterHelp psychiatry and medication management services provide virtual mental health care for individuals ages 18 and older who are experiencing mild to severe behavioral health symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and other conditions that may benefit from psychiatric consultation, prescriptions, and ongoing medication management. Psychiatry is an additional care option available alongside therapy and can be part of a holistic mental health care experience. Psychiatry services may include medication management when clinically appropriate. All treatment decisions are made by a licensed psychiatric provider.
Are psychiatry and medication management covered by insurance on BetterHelp?
Yes. BetterHelp now offers psychiatry services that may be covered by insurance through Uplift. Many Uplift providers are in-network with most major insurance carriers (for eligible members the average copay is only $20). The cost of your medication will depend on your insurance plan. We recommend speaking with your insurance to learn how much your medication will cost. Try asking about your copay, deductible, and whether they cover your prescribed medication.
What is the best ADHD coping mechanism, and what is the most effective treatment option?
The best ADHD coping mechanism varies from person to person, as each individual’s experience with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is unique. However, the most effective way to treat ADHD tends to be a combination of therapy and medication. Psychiatrists may prescribe different medications, such as stimulant and non-stimulant medications, to manage impulsive behaviors and other ADHD symptoms. It may be helpful to note that stimulants tend to work within minutes to hours, while non-stimulants may require a few weeks to take full effect. Meanwhile, cognitive behavioral therapy is usually viewed as the gold standard of ADHD therapy.
Do I have untreated ADHD?
Even if you haven’t been diagnosed with ADHD, it’s still possible to be living with this disorder. Below are several common symptoms:
- Impulsive behavior
- Challenges with task prioritization
- Low tolerance for frustration
- Frequent mood swings
- Difficulty coping with stress
- Issues with tasks that require sustained focus
- Poor time management and planning skills
- Restlessness
- Difficulty completing tasks or following through on commitments
- Challenges with focus
In addition to psychotherapy and medications, people with previously untreated ADHD often benefit from joining ADHD support groups.
Do I have ADHD or anxiety?
It can sometimes be challenging to distinguish between ADHD and anxiety disorders, as these two conditions can share symptoms and can also co-occur. ADHD and anxiety may both lead to difficulty concentrating, a sense of restlessness, and problems with sleep.
However, ADHD has a more consistent presentation of forgetfulness, a short attention span, an inability to plan and prioritize tasks, along with a tendency to interrupt others and have trouble waiting one’s turn. Meanwhile, anxiety typically presents as a persistent sense of tension and nervousness, and symptoms can also include rapid breathing and heart rate, sweating, trembling, and challenges with managing one’s worries.
There is no one test to determine if someone has ADHD and/or anxiety. To make an accurate diagnosis, a licensed mental health professional will conduct a thorough mental health assessment. To get the most effective treatment (and accurate diagnosis), it’s important to consult a provider who is licensed and experienced in treating ADHD and anxiety.
How would you describe what ADHD feels like?
The experience of living with ADHD tends to be different for each person who has it. Some people with ADHD describe it as their brains constantly being “busy” or that they are always on the brink of overwhelm. Their symptoms can be frustrating and may even seem paralyzing at times. If you think you could have ADHD, seeking treatment can make a significant difference in symptom severity and overall quality of life.
How do you tell someone you have ADHD?
It is your choice whether to tell someone you have ADHD. If you’d like to tell someone, it may be helpful to consider what you’d like them to know about your experience with the disorder. You may find that you need to explain what it is like to live with ADHD, as not everyone may have knowledge about the condition.
It can also help people understand the ADHD experience by describing how brain chemicals cause symptoms—such as difficulty working on tasks that require sustained focus, poor impulse control, and trouble paying attention. In addition to helping many adults explain their symptoms to co-workers or partners, this neuroscientific explanation can also help explain the disorder to children with ADHD who don’t understand their symptoms.
How do I tell my doctor I have anxiety medication side effects?
Always inform your prescribing doctor if you’re experiencing side effects from anxiety medication or any other medications, such as those for ADHD. Most stimulants and non-stimulants can have side effects, and letting your doctor know about what you’re experiencing enables them to adjust your dosage or prescribe a different medication option. For example, stimulants can impact your blood pressure, so if your blood pressure becomes too high, you may need to consider non-stimulant options. If you have trouble scheduling appointments with your local family doctor, consider connecting with telemedicine doctors, as many of them can prescribe medications.
There are many types of medicine available for the treatment of anxiety, so if one is causing unpleasant side effects, it’s a good idea to explore other medication options with your prescribing doctor or nurse practitioner.
How do I tell if I have ADHD as a woman?
Women with ADHD usually show more symptoms related to inattentiveness than hyperactivity. You can learn more about ADHD with this guide from the National Institute of Mental Health. However, the only way to know for sure whether you have ADHD is to speak with a licensed health professional who is trained and experienced with managing the disorder. If you’re experiencing symptoms like poor organizational skills, careless mistakes, trouble concentrating, or other signs of ADHD, your primary care provider can refer you to a licensed mental health professional who can complete an evaluation and potentially diagnose you with the disorder, if appropriate.
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