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Can I Talk to My Doctor About Trying ADHD Medication? 

PostedOctober 15, 2025
UpdatedOctober 16, 2025
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, you can and should talk to your doctor about ADHD medication if you’re struggling with symptoms that affect your daily life. Medication is one of the most common and effective treatments for ADHD. Bringing up the topic doesn’t mean you’re committing to taking it, but it does open the door to exploring what might help you feel more focused, organised, and calm. 

When discussing ADHD drugs, it’s helpful to be clear about your symptoms and how they affect your work, relationships, or self-esteem. Your doctor will consider your medical history, current challenges, and whether medication might be a safe and useful next step. If appropriate, they may start you on a trial dose and monitor how you respond. 

Get a personalised assessment for ADHD

How It Helps to Be Open About Medication 

Starting a conversation about ADHD medication shows that you’re taking your care seriously and looking for solutions that work. 

Understand the Options 

There are stimulant and non-stimulant types. Your doctor can explain the pros and cons of each based on your needs. 

Raise Any Concerns 

If you’re unsure or anxious about starting ADHD meds, ask about side effects, duration, and how long it might take to see results. 

Plan for Follow-Up 

Medication is usually just one part of treatment. Your doctor may suggest regular reviews alongside therapy or lifestyle changes. 

Being open about starting ADHD meds ensures you get personalised advice and can make informed choices about your treatment. 

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.