Your Guide To Navigating ADHD Medication

(Note: The Neuroverse team members not medical professionals and do not promote or discourage medication. Please speak to a qualified healthcare provider for personal advice and guidance to make informed decisions and take the best steps for your child.)

As a parent, few things are more overwhelming than navigating your child’s ADHD diagnosis. You want the best for them — to see them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. So, when medication comes up as a treatment option, it’s perfectly normal to feel uncertain or even conflicted.

Let’s be honest — no parent wants their child to be on chronic medication. But for many families, medication can be a vital part of an effective ADHD support plan. Research shows that early intervention can make a big difference in long-term. So, if you’re heading down this road, it helps to understand what’s involved.

Understanding the Basics: Two Main Types of Medication

ADHD medication falls into two broad categories: stimulants and non-stimulants. Each works differently and has its own benefits and side effects. The aim is to improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and help your child manage their emotions — not to “change” who they are.

Stimulant Medications

These are the most commonly prescribed ADHD medications in South Africa.

How They Work:

Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters help regulate attention, focus and behaviour — all areas that children with ADHD typically struggle with.

Common Stimulants in South Africa:

• Methylphenidate (e.g. Ritalin, RADD, Concerta): Available in short-acting and long-acting forms. It’s often the first medication doctors will try.
• Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse): An amphetamine-based medication. It’s a prodrug, meaning it only becomes active after being metabolised, which can reduce the risk of sudden spikes or crashes.

Benefits:

• Improves focus and concentration
• Helps reduce hyperactivity
• May assist with emotional regulation and impulsivity
• Quick onset — most parents notice a difference within 30–60 minutes

Possible Side Effects:

• Appetite suppression
• Sleep difficulties
• Headaches or stomach aches
• Irritability or emotional ups and downs
• In some cases, weight loss

From a parent’s point of view, one of the hardest things is watching your child go through the adjustment period. We’ve found that keeping a symptom diary can help track what’s working and what isn’t. Chat openly with your doctor — sometimes a simple dosage tweak or changing from short- to long-acting forms makes all the difference.

Non-Stimulant Medications

These are often considered when stimulants aren’t effective, aren’t tolerated, or when there are co-existing conditions like anxiety.

Common Non-Stimulants:

• Atomoxetine (Strattera, Inir, Atteze): A norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It doesn’t kick in as fast as stimulants — it can take several weeks — but it has a longer-lasting effect throughout the day and into the evening.
• Clonidine (Dixarit): Sometimes used off-label in SA for ADHD, especially helpful if your child struggles with sleep or aggression. Note: Clonidine must not be stopped suddenly, as this can cause blood pressure spikes.

Benefits:

• No risk of dependency or abuse
• Works well for some kids with anxiety or tics
• Can help with sleep difficulties
• Longer effect through the evening

Possible Side Effects:

• Drowsiness
• Nausea or stomach issues
• Mood changes (note there is a small chance of suicidal ideation, talk to your doctor immediately if this occurs)
• Blood pressure fluctuations (with Clonidine or similar medications)

Non-stimulants require more patience — both from the child and their parents. We found it helpful to manage expectations and keep our child’s teachers in the loop, especially during the trial phase.

What We Wish We’d Known Sooner

1. It’s Not a Magic Pill — But It Helps

Medication is a tool, not a cure. It works best when combined with other support like therapy, classroom accommodations, and parenting strategies. Think of it as part of a toolbox — not the whole toolbox.

2. Finding the Right Fit Takes Time

Expect some trial and error. Your journey may involve testing different meds, adjusting the dose, and working closely with your doctor. It can be frustrating at times, but when you land on the right combination, the results can be life-changing.

3. Keep the School Involved

Your child’s teacher will often be the first to notice changes — good or bad. Communicate regularly. Some parents choose to give medication only on school days, but this should always be discussed with your healthcare provider.

4. Watch for Emotional Side Effects

Even if your child becomes more focused, emotional blunting (flat affect) or increased anxiety can be a sign that the dose isn’t right. Keep an eye on their mood, not just their school performance.

Tips & Tricks We’ve Picked Up

(For the full article check out The Neuroverse’s “Tips and Tricks” article, 2025)

• Give meds after breakfast, especially with methylphenidate, to reduce appetite issues and nausea – and not with orange juice!
• Avoid fatty breakfasts with medications like Vyvanse – they can delay or reduce its effect. Opt for a balanced meal with protein, carbs and healthy fats.
• Track patterns — using an app or journal — to notice whether the meds are affecting sleep or appetite over time.
• Celebrate small wins — like a calm homework session or getting ready on time. It builds your child’s confidence.

Final Thoughts from One Parent to Another

Starting medication for ADHD can feel like stepping into unknown territory. As parents, we carry the weight of every decision, wondering if we’re doing the right thing. But trust yourself — and your child. You’re not alone on this journey.

Whether you choose to medicate, explore natural supports, or do both — the most powerful thing you can do is stay informed, stay flexible, and stay connected to a community that gets it.

References:

• NICE Guidelines: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: diagnosis and management (NG87)
• South African Journal of Psychiatry, 2022. “The burden of ADHD in South Africa.”
• The Neuroverse, 2024 & 2025. “All About ADHD Medication” and “ADHD Medication: Tips and Tricks.”