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What Should I Do If Medication for ADHD Isn’t Working? 

PostedOctober 16, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

If you feel like your current treatment is off track, it is important to know that you are not alone. Many people find that their first prescription does not fully address their symptoms. If your ADHD medication is not working, speaking with your doctor is the first and most important step. 

There are many possible reasons a medication might not be effective. It could be the type, dosage, or even the time of day you take it. You might also find that it works for focus but worsens sleep or appetite. This is where a treatment adjustment ADHD based can make a big difference. Your doctor may suggest a different medication, dose, or timing to improve results. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD

How It Helps to Act Early 

Addressing the issue quickly means your doctor can review the situation and explore alternative approaches ADHD management may include. 

Track Symptoms 

Keep notes on what is working, what is not, and when you notice changes. This gives your doctor a clearer view of the problem. 

Review Your Routine 

Sometimes lifestyle factors like sleep, diet, or stress can affect how medication works. 

Consider Other Options 

If one medication fails, another might work better. Non-medication support such as therapy or coaching can also be valuable when ADHD medication is not working. 

You deserve treatment that actually helps, and adjusting it is a normal part of the process. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.    

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to How to talk to doctors or get assessed. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD
Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Harriet Winslow, BSc
Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.