ADHD Medications in the UK: A 2025 Guide to Your Options and Support
Understanding ADHD Treatment in the UK
Whether you've just been diagnosed or you're considering your options, ADHD treatment in the UK can feel confusing. Between stimulant medications, non-stimulants, long wait times, and mixed advice online, it’s hard to know where to start.
This guide breaks it all down — including how supplements like Attentiv can support your brain health alongside (or in place of) medication.
What Are the Main Types of ADHD Medications?
There are two main classes of ADHD medication available in the UK:
1. Stimulants
These are the most commonly prescribed and often most effective medications.
| Medication |
Brand Names |
Notes |
| Methylphenidate |
Concerta XL |
Short- and long-acting versions |
| Lisdexamfetamine |
Elvanse |
Popular for adults and teens |
| Dexamphetamine |
Amfexa |
Short acting |
Stimulants work by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels — neurotransmitters involved in focus, motivation, and self-regulation.
2. Non-Stimulants
Used when stimulants aren’t suitable or well-tolerated.
| Medication |
Brand Name |
Notes |
| Atomoxetine |
Strattera |
Affects norepinephrine only |
| Guanfacine |
Intuniv |
License for use children |
|
|
|
These may take longer to work but can be helpful for emotional regulation or anxiety.
Side Effects and Monitoring
ADHD medications — especially stimulants — are controlled substances in the UK and require:
Regular blood pressure and heart rate checks
Ongoing prescription reviews
Titration periods (adjusting the dose over time)
Common Side Effects
Appetite suppression
Sleep disruption
Mood changes
Increased anxiety (in some cases)
Can Supplements Be Used with ADHD Meds?
Yes — and often they can make a big difference.
While ADHD meds target brain chemicals, many people are still deficient in nutrients essential to brain function. Common deficiencies in people with ADHD include:
Magnesium
Iron
Zinc
Vitamin D
Choline
B-vitamins
Omega-3s
These nutrients support:
Dopamine production
Gut-brain balance
Sleep and emotional regulation
Mitochondrial (brain energy) function
Attentiv Supplements: A Natural Companion to ADHD Medications
At Attentiv, we don’t claim to replace medication — but we do help fill the gaps with:
A powerful capsule with 20+ brain-supporting nutrients including:
Magnesium, Iron, Zinc
L-Theanine, Alpha Lipoic Acid
CoQ10, Choline, Bacopa, and more
Great for adults on or off meds who want a daily brain boost.
Sugar-free, pineapple-flavoured, and include:
Probiotics (gut-brain support)
B vitamins
Minerals
Perfect for kids or adults who struggle with pills — and excellent alongside medication.
✅ NMN Capsules
Supports cellular energy and brain function.
NMN is being studied for its role in longevity, focus, and brain clarity — especially useful for those feeling mentally drained from ADHD or burnout.
12 carefully chosen nutrients to support focus, calm, and energy in ages 3+.
Includes probiotics, B-vitamins, magnesium, and more — sugar-free and mum-approved.
Supplements vs Medication: Do I Have to Choose?
Not at all. Many people with ADHD benefit most from a combined approach:
Medication for dopamine regulation
Supplements for nutrient support, calm, and energy balance
Lifestyle strategies (sleep, hydration, movement)
Always check with your prescriber before combining supplements and medications, especially if you're under shared care with the NHS or a private psychiatrist.
Final Thoughts
ADHD treatment is personal — and no one-size-fits-all solution exists. Whether you’re on medication, exploring alternatives, or supporting a child through the journey, the more informed you are, the more empowered your choices will be.
Explore our range of supplements made with clean, research-backed ingredients — and find what works for your brain.
→ Browse Attentiv’s Focus Range
What If You’re Struggling to Get Your Medication?
Due to increased demand, some ADHD medications — especially Elvanse, Concerta, and Methylphenidate IR — have faced shortages across the UK in recent months.
If you’ve been prescribed a medication and are struggling to get it filled, you have options:
📞 Contact your prescribing clinic to ask about alternatives or titration pauses
🏥 Use a private ADHD dispensing pharmacy like Broadway Pharmacy
– They can often fulfill private prescriptions when others cannot
– Some offer nationwide delivery and work directly with ADHD clinics
🛡️ Important: You must have a valid private prescription — they do not supply medication without proper documentation.
Attentiv is also exploring partnerships with trusted pharmacies to help improve access in 2025 and beyond.
