Knowing the steps to getting ADHD medication can help along your path to treatment. Discover who can prescribe these medications and how to get a diagnosis.
ADHD is a condition that affects approximately 11% of children aged 3 to 17 years old in the United States and around 6% of adults. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder makes it very hard for some people to maintain focus, sit still and think before acting. Individuals with ADHD may also have a hard time managing their emotions in a healthy way. There are varying degrees of the condition, and not everyone reacts the same way. Medication may make symptoms easier to control. It can also make things go more smoothly at work and school. If you’re wondering about the steps to getting ADHD medication and whether it could be the key to improving your daily life, keep reading. This article will walk you through the process of getting the help you need.
What ADHD Medications Are and How They Work
Stimulants are the most common class of medications used to treat ADHD. Common drugs include Ritalin, Adderall and Vyvanse. Individuals with ADHD tend to have lower levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine in their brains. These chemicals are responsible for attention, impulse control and executive function. Stimulants work by increasing the levels of these chemicals. They come in both short-acting and long-lasting formulas and start working almost immediately.
Non-stimulants may also work in patients who don’t respond well to stimulants, such as those with heart problems and anxiety. Non-stimulant choices may include atomoxetine or viloxazine, which gradually increase norepinephrine levels. These medications can be just as effective, but it may take several weeks for them to reach their full effect.
Who Can Prescribe ADHD Medications?
Knowing who can prescribe ADHD medications can be helpful when you’re exploring treatment options. Only certain health care professionals have the authority:
- Primary care physician (PCP). Your primary care physician is likely the first health care professional you’ll talk to about ADHD. A PCP can conduct an initial screening and discuss symptoms. In some cases, your PCP may diagnose and prescribe medications for ADHD, while others may provide a referral to a mental health professional.
- Psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats mental, emotional and behavioral health conditions. They may prescribe medications and order tests the same way a PCP can. Typically, a psychiatrist is the best choice for getting ADHD medications.
- Neurologist. A neurologist isn’t usually the first doctor called for an ADHD diagnosis, but they may be needed to rule out any underlying causes of symptoms, such as epilepsy or a traumatic brain injury.
- Nurse practitioner. Nurse practitioners who specialize or work in psychiatry are qualified and licensed to prescribe ADHD medications. These specialists often work in large clinics that see a lot of patients and help take the load off doctors and psychiatrists.
The Steps to Getting ADHD Medication and the Criteria Doctors Use to Diagnose and Prescribe
It’s important to understand there’s no single test for ADHD. For a proper diagnosis, most health care providers follow the guidelines listed in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5). The procedure may go as follows:
- Clinical interview. Your physician will ask detailed questions about your symptoms, including when they started, how you feel and where you experience symptoms most, such as at school or work. For children, symptoms must be present before age 12.
- Symptom checklist. Questionnaires help quantify your symptoms and compare them against standards for diagnosis. Your physician may also ask you to have a close friend or teacher fill out the questionnaire. Observations from an outside observer can provide valuable information. Typically, if an adult or child displays at least six of the common behaviors associated with ADHD, they’re eligible for treatment.
- Review of medical history. To get a good picture of your mental health, your doctor will look at your past medical history, including your prior physical condition and any other disorders. This can help rule out any underlying causes, including thyroid issues, depression, sleep apnea and nutrient deficiencies.
Why a Prescription Might Be Denied or Delayed
It can be frustrating to seek help and get denied treatment. However, there are multiple reasons a physician may deny or delay your request when following the steps for getting ADHD medication.
- Insufficient evidence for diagnosis. If your symptoms don’t meet the DSM-5 criteria or don’t seem clear, you may be denied treatment.
- Alternative diagnosis. After examining your symptoms, your doctor may determine you have a different condition from ADHD. For example, anxiety disorders and thyroid problems require a different care approach.
- Medical complications. If you have a preexisting condition, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease, stimulants might not be a good choice. Stimulants can increase your heart rate and elevate your blood pressure, which can be dangerous in some people.
- History of substance abuse. Stimulants are controlled substances that have the potential for abuse. If you’ve struggled with addiction in the past, your physician may recommend non-stimulant medications.
The Importance of Medical Evaluation and Ongoing Monitoring
Getting a prescription for ADHD is just the beginning of the process of receiving help. To ensure you receive the best care, it’s important to follow a treatment plan with your physician. This may include:
- Regular medication adjustments. Finding the right medication and dose can be a process of trial and error. When you’re prescribed medication, your doctor will monitor your symptoms and side effects. Initially, you may have appointments every few weeks to gradually adjust your dose to a therapeutic level.
- Holistic treatment. Medication is just one tool in managing ADHD symptoms. Part of a comprehensive treatment plan also includes therapy and lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep, eating the right foods and exercising.
Addressing Misuse and Stigma Around ADHD Treatment
Approximately 4.9 million individuals aged 12 and older misuse stimulants originally prescribed for mental health. College-aged students often use these medications as a study aid to help them stay awake at night while cramming for exams. In individuals with ADHD, these medications can provide a sense of calm, while in individuals without ADHD, stimulants can cause hyper-stimulation and feelings of euphoria. By viewing these medications as a valid form of treatment, you can improve your overall well-being.
Getting Help for ADHD
If you’re looking for the steps to getting ADHD medications or treatment for mental health, we can help. Contact us at FHE Health to speak to one of our professionals, who can walk you through your available treatment options so you can start improving your daily life.
