In the UK, medication is one part of a plan rather than the whole of it, and it is not usually the first step for younger children. NICE guidance places support at school, parent training and environmental changes alongside — and often before — a medication trial.
How the decision is usually reached
From diagnosis to a settled plan
A typical sequence in a UK service. The detail varies by child and by provider.
- 1
Diagnosis and plan
Non-medication support is put in place first: school adjustments, routines, parent programmes.
- 2
Review of impact
If difficulties persist and are significantly affecting learning or wellbeing, medication is discussed.
- 3
Baseline checks
Height, weight, pulse and blood pressure are recorded, with a review of cardiac and family history.
- 4
Titration
A low dose is started and adjusted gradually, with feedback gathered from home and school.
- 5
Ongoing review
Regular monitoring of growth, appetite, sleep, mood and effect, with dose adjustments over time.
Questions to ask the specialist
- What are we hoping this will improve, and how will we measure it?
- What are the common side effects, and which ones should prompt a call?
- How long is the trial before we decide whether it is working?
- How will school feedback be collected?
- How often will height, weight, blood pressure and sleep be reviewed?
- Who prescribes long term, and is shared care with our GP agreed?
What medication does not do
Medication does not teach organisation, repair a difficult school placement, or replace understanding at home. Families who see the best outcomes usually combine it with adjustments at school and changes to routine — and keep reviewing all three.
Frequently asked questions
- Is medication always recommended for ADHD?
- No. It is one option, considered when difficulties remain significant despite other support, and it is not usually first-line for young children.
- Can our GP prescribe ADHD medication?
- A specialist normally initiates and titrates it. A GP may continue prescribing afterwards under a shared-care agreement, where local arrangements allow.
- What if we would rather not use medication?
- That is your decision to discuss with the specialist. School adjustments, parent programmes, sleep and routine work are all part of a legitimate plan.
Free · 8 minutes · No sign-up
Screen your child in eight minutes
Answer 22 questions based on recognised diagnostic criteria and get a written profile you can take to your GP or a private clinician.
Start the ADHD screening