Treatment
Medication for ADHD
Medication does not take ADHD away and does not change your personality. What it does do is create space. Medication is never compulsory: you decide.
What medication does
One of the most thoroughly researched treatments in psychiatry
70–80%
Research shows that symptoms clearly decrease in about 70 to 80% of adults.
Medication does not make you smarter and does not teach you new skills. That is why we usually combine medication with psychoeducation and cognitive behavioural therapy.
The medicines
First choice
Methylphenidate
Our medicine of first choice, in short-acting and long-acting forms.Often the second step
Dexamfetamine and lisdexamfetamine
A stimulant alternative if methylphenidate does not help enough or is not suitable.Non-stimulant
Atomoxetine
Works gradually, with its full effect after a number of weeks, and provides cover throughout the day. An option if you have anxiety or sleep problems, or if stimulants are not suitable.
How we adjust your dose
Measuring
Beforehand, we measure your blood pressure, heart rate and weight.Starting low
You start on a low dose.Step by step
Every one to two weeks, we evaluate the effect and any side effects, and adjust the dose if needed.The right dose
Together we look for the dose that suits you best.Check-ups and handover
Once your dose is stable, check-ups take place at longer intervals. At completion, your GP can take care of your repeat prescription in consultation.
Side effects
Side effects are usually mild and often disappear within one to two weeks. Examples are a reduced appetite, difficulty falling asleep, headache, a dry mouth, a slightly higher heart rate or blood pressure, or a dip when the medication wears off.
Always report side effects. They are almost never a reason to stop completely; a different dose, a different time or a different medicine often helps.
Medication in daily life
Driving
Do not drive while your dose is being adjusted or after a change in dose. Once your dose is stable and you have no side effects that affect driving, you are in principle allowed to drive. Since 1 April 2026, you no longer need a separate medical assessment for ADHD by the CBR (the Dutch driving licence authority).Travelling
Methylphenidate and (lis)dexamfetamine fall under the Dutch Opium Act (Opiumwet). Within the Schengen area you need a Schengen certificate (Schengenverklaring), and outside it a medical statement in English. Arrange this four to six weeks in advance and carry your medication in its original packaging in your hand luggage. How to arrange it with the CAK (in Dutch) (opens in a new window)Alcohol
We advise against alcohol in combination with ADHD medication. If you take dexamfetamine or lisdexamfetamine, do not drink alcohol if you are going to drive.Wanting children or pregnancy
Always discuss a wish to have children or a pregnancy with your practitioner.
You decide
Questions about medication
- No. ADHD medication does not make you smarter and does not change your personality. What medication does do is create space.
- Yes, if your dose is stable, you take your medication as prescribed and you have no side effects that affect driving. Do not drive while your dose is being adjusted or after a change in dose. Since 1 April 2026, the mandatory driving licence medical assessment for ADHD no longer applies. If you also have another condition, or take medication that strongly affects your ability to drive, the CBR may still require an assessment.
- Yes, but arrange it in good time. Within the Schengen area you need a Schengen certificate, and outside it a medical statement in English. Apply for it four to six weeks in advance.
- At completion, we let your GP know which medication you have been settled on. Your GP can then take care of your repeat prescriptions in consultation.
Sources
Treatment
Read more
- PsychoeducationIn psychoeducation you learn what ADHD is and how it affects your life. Your partner or family are welcome. Part of the treatment at ADHD Medisch Centrum.
- Cognitive behavioural therapyIn cognitive behavioural therapy you learn skills for planning, structure, procrastination, emotions, impulsive behaviour and negative thoughts. Part of the treatment at ADHD Medisch Centrum.
- E-healthWith online modules on the Embloom platform, you work between appointments on skills and exercises that tie in with your ADHD treatment.
Would you like to register?
For an assessment and treatment with us, you need a referral from your GP. On the Registration page you can read how this works.