Medication or therapy

Medicine for ADHD

There are five types of medicine licensed for the treatment of ADHD:

• Methylphenidate
• Lisdexamfetamine
• Dexamfetamine
• Atomoxetine
• Guanfacine

While these medicines do not provide a permanent cure for ADHD, they can help improve focus, reduce impulsiveness, create a sense of calm, and assist with learning and practising new skills.

If you are diagnosed with ADHD as an adult, your GP and specialist can work with you to decide which medicines and therapies would be most suitable for you.

Therapy for ADHD

Therapies can help manage ADHD symptoms and related issues like anxiety or conduct disorders. Some useful therapies include:

• Psychoeducation: Helps you understand ADHD and its effects, making it easier to cope with the condition.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): A talking therapy that helps change negative thoughts and behaviours, improving how you or your child manage situations.

Therapy can work alongside medication to help manage ADHD more effectively.