ADHD
Difficulties with attention, impulsivity and restlessness that persist into adult life.
About this condition
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition present from childhood, though many adults are diagnosed much later. It affects attention, organisation, working memory, impulse control and emotional regulation, and often coexists with anxiety, low mood or sleep problems. In adults the restlessness is frequently internal rather than visible.
Diagnosis requires a proper specialist assessment. Treatment combines practical support with stimulant medicines such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine, or non stimulant alternatives, and these help a large proportion of people. Side effects, appetite loss and disrupted sleep are the usual reasons treatment is stopped, and UK waiting lists for assessment are often very long.
Treatments people usually try first
These are the treatments commonly offered in the UK for this condition. A specialist doctor will want to know which of them you have tried, and what happened.
- Stimulant medicines such as methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine
- Non stimulant medicines such as atomoxetine or guanfacine
- ADHD focused coaching and psychoeducation
- Cognitive behavioural therapy for coexisting anxiety or low mood
- Workplace or educational adjustments and support
- Treatment of coexisting sleep problems
Could medical cannabis be appropriate?
People with this condition sometimes ask whether medical cannabis could be appropriate for them. That is a question for a specialist doctor, who will look at your diagnosis, your history and everything you have already tried before saying anything either way.
Medical cannabis is an unlicensed prescription only medicine in the UK. It is considered only where a diagnosed condition has not responded adequately to conventional treatment, and it is never a first step. We cannot tell you in advance what might be prescribed, and UK law does not allow us to describe or advertise any medicine on this website.
What we can do is assess you properly and be honest with you. If a specialist doctor does not think this route is right for you, they will say so, and they will explain why.
All treatment is subject to clinical assessment and eligibility.
Questions about adhd
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