Starting ADHD medication can feel like a big step, but the right support can make the process clear, safe, and reassuring. At Harrow Health Right to Choose ADHD service, we assess and treat adults aged 18 and over, helping patients move from diagnosis to treatment with confidence.
Where clinically appropriate, medication can be commenced at the initial assessment. This means patients are not left waiting unnecessarily to begin treatment when ADHD is diagnosed, medication is suitable, and the required safety checks have been completed.
A clear medication pathway from assessment to treatment
ADHD medication can help improve attention, reduce impulsivity, support emotional regulation, and make day-to-day tasks feel more manageable. It is not a cure, and it is not right for everyone, but for many adults it can be an important part of a wider treatment plan.
Our clinicians take time to understand your symptoms, goals, medical history, mental health, current medication, and any safety considerations. Treatment decisions are made collaboratively, so you understand your options and feel informed at every stage.
Adult ADHD medication options
For adults with ADHD, NICE recommends lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate as first-line medication options. If one option is not suitable or does not provide enough benefit after an adequate trial, your clinician may consider switching to another recommended treatment.
Atomoxetine may be considered where lisdexamfetamine or methylphenidate are not tolerated, or where symptoms have not responded to separate adequate trials of both medications. Your clinician will recommend medication only where it is safe, appropriate, and likely to support your treatment goals.
Starting medication without unnecessary delay
At Harrow Health, medication may be started at the initial assessment when clinically appropriate. Before prescribing, your clinician will complete the required baseline checks, discuss benefits and risks, and agree a treatment plan with you.
These checks include a review of your diagnosis, symptoms, mental health, social circumstances, medical history, current medication, and any risk of substance misuse or medication diversion. Physical health checks include height, weight, pulse, blood pressure, and a cardiovascular assessment if necessary.
Careful titration and monitoring
Titration is the process of adjusting medication to find the most suitable dose. The aim is to improve day-to-day functioning while keeping side effects absent, mild, or manageable.
During titration, your clinician will review your symptoms, functioning, and side effects at each dose change. NICE recommends checking heart rate and blood pressure before and after each dose change, and every 6 months once stable.
Electronic prescriptions to any pharmacy in England
Harrow Health can send electronic prescriptions to any pharmacy in England where clinically appropriate. This helps patients access medication locally and choose a pharmacy that works for them.
NHS guidance explains that patients can choose a pharmacy for electronic prescriptions, and that prescriptions can be sent electronically to that pharmacy until the choice is changed or removed. Community Pharmacy England also confirms that patients may nominate any pharmacy regardless of location, supporting freedom of choice in where prescriptions are dispensed.
Shared care with your NHS GP
Once medication has been titrated and stabilised, Harrow Health can write to your NHS GP with a shared care request. Where the GP agrees, ongoing prescribing can continue safely in primary care.
The NHS explains that a GP may be able to take over prescribing ADHD medication where there is a shared care agreement between the GP and ADHD specialist. If your GP is unable or unwilling to accept shared care, your treatment does not have to stop.
Harrow Health can continue prescribing your ADHD medication via the NHS if shared care is declined. This helps maintain continuity of treatment and reduces the risk of unnecessary disruption.
Ongoing support and annual review
Once medication is optimised, treatment should still be reviewed regularly. NICE recommends reviewing ADHD medication at least once a year, including benefits, side effects, clinical need, impact on education or employment, missed doses, planned dose reductions, and whether medication remains appropriate.
Our aim is to provide a safe, responsive, and supportive medication pathway from first assessment through to long-term care.
Why choose Harrow Health for adult ADHD medication?
- Adult ADHD specialists: We assess and treat adults aged 18 and over.
- Right to Choose pathway: Eligible patients can access care through the NHS Right to Choose route.
- Medication at initial assessment: Where clinically appropriate, treatment can begin without unnecessary delay.
- Safe titration and monitoring: We follow structured prescribing and monitoring processes.
- Electronic prescriptions: Prescriptions can be sent to any pharmacy in England where clinically appropriate.
- Shared care support: We can request shared care with your NHS GP once treatment is stable.
- NHS continuity if shared care is declined: If your GP does not accept shared care, Harrow Health can continue prescribing via the NHS.
FAQs
Can ADHD medication be started at my first appointment?
Yes, medication can be commenced at the initial assessment where clinically appropriate. This depends on the outcome of your assessment, clinical suitability, baseline safety checks, and shared decision-making with your clinician.
Can my prescription be sent to my local pharmacy?
Yes. Harrow Health can send electronic prescriptions to any pharmacy in England where clinically appropriate.
What happens if my GP refuses shared care?
If your GP does not accept shared care, Harrow Health can continue prescribing your ADHD medication via the NHS. This means your treatment does not need to stop simply because shared care has been declined.
Will I still be monitored after starting medication?
Yes. Your treatment will be monitored during titration and reviewed regularly once stable, including pulse, blood pressure, weight, benefits, side effects, and ongoing clinical need.
Start your adult ADHD treatment journey
Harrow Health Right to Choose ADHD service provides a clear, supportive pathway for adults seeking ADHD assessment and medication treatment. From initial assessment to titration, electronic prescribing, shared care, and ongoing NHS prescribing where needed, our team is here to help you access safe and timely care.
If you are ready to begin, speak to your GP about a Right to Choose referral to Harrow Health.
