- Mental Health
ADHD
ADHD medication and treatment online
Learn how ADHD medications can help inattentiveness and more with a consultation from one of our board-certified doctors online. Get a new prescription for ADHD medication or refill an existing prescription. Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. PlushCare cannot write prescriptions for ADHD medication such as Adderall, Ritalin, and other controlled substances.*
Book an appointmentEffective, non-habit-forming ADHD medications
Consult with an expert ADHD doctor online, anytime
ADHD treatment with referrals to licensed therapists
*Learn more about our controlled substances policy. Treatment of ADHD will depend on the individual's symptoms, age, and the severity of impact. Prescription medication is a common form of treatment for ADHD. Treatment is most effective when medication therapy is combined with behavioral strategies.
How to treat ADHD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatment depends on factors such as a person's age, symptoms, and severity of impact. Prescription medication treatment is common and most effective when combined with behavioral treatment such as behavior therapy.
For young children with ADHD, behavior therapy is typically recommended before looking at medications. At this age, behavior therapy not only involves skills training for the child but also parenting skills training for the parents.
Both children and adults with ADHD can experience difficulties in social interactions and can benefit from undergoing social skills training. Social skills training aims to teach skill sets that help improve and maintain social interactions.
ADHD symptoms can begin during childhood and continue into adulthood (adult ADHD). Common symptoms of ADHD include:
Difficulty paying attention (inattention): This refers to having difficulty staying organized and sustaining focus to finish specific tasks.
Being overactive (hyperactivity): This is characterized by constantly moving about, excessively fidgeting, or talking. In adults, hyperactivity may present as extreme restlessness or excessive talking.
Acting without thinking (impulsivity): This refers to having difficulty with self-control.
If you experience these symptoms, speak with a doctor to learn more about treating ADHD.
ADHD medication
ADHD medications are medications designed to help increase the concentration of certain brain chemicals, with the hopes of reducing the ADHD symptoms that the patient experiences. They’re often prescribed to help treat ADHD, but they’re used for other conditions as well. While medications are useful, they are often combined with other ADHD treatment options, such as behavior therapy, to provide more significant results.
Other conditions are also treated with certain types of ADHD medication. There are some scenarios where a doctor may prescribe stimulant medications to patients who do not have ADHD. For example, one brand of medications that falls in the amphetamine class is often used to assist in the treatment of narcolepsy.
Another off-label use for stimulant medications is for individuals who are struggling to lose weight. It is generally considered the last-line treatment. If the patient follows a diet and exercise plan, and other types of treatments also fail to produce results, then the healthcare provider may consider the use of stimulant medications. This may help to provide a boost in the weight loss results that the patient is able to experience.
There are two main types of prescription ADHD medications.
Non-stimulant ADHD medication
Non-stimulant, sometimes called alternative or atypical, ADHD drugs are most often used to treat symptoms of ADHD when a stimulant is not the right choice. Perhaps the individual experiences side effects when they use stimulant drugs to treat their ADHD symptoms, or they are concerned about the potential depletion of dopamine when they use these drugs over a long period of time.
These alternative or atypical drugs that are used for ADHD symptoms each have their own usage and mechanisms by which they work. For example, the healthcare professional may prescribe clonidine, a type of antihypertensive drug. This drug is an alpha-2 agonist. It may help individuals who experience hyperactivity due to the presence of ADHD.
Strattera has also become popular among the non-stimulant ADHD medications that patients use. This is a type of norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It essentially increases the concentration of norepinephrine in the brain, which does have a stimulating effect on the body - but without the use of amphetamines or related stimulant medications.
IF APPLICABLE: Alternative ADHD drugs are sometimes taken with other medications to enhance their overall efficacy. For example, doctors may sometimes prescribe clonidine along with Adderall to help the patient experience a more significant level of reduced ADHD symptoms. These non-stimulating medications do not work on the same pathways as stimulant medications.
Examples of non-stimulant ADHD medication include:Stimulant ADHD medication*
Stimulant drugs are often used to reduce the hyperactivity, restlessness, and other symptoms that individuals with ADHD experience. Stimulant drugs work by having a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, and they also tend to increase dopamine levels.
*Stimulant ADHD medication falls under the category of controlled substances, which we cannot prescribe online.AdderallDexedrine
Vyvanse
Concerta
Focalin
Daytrana (methylphenidate)
Metadate
Ritalin
Methylin
Quillivant XR
Stimulants are highly effective at reducing these symptoms due to their effect on the central nervous system. Stimulant medications treat ADHD by creating a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, but also through an increase in the release of dopamine that is available in the brain. These are some of the more potent options when it comes to the treatment of ADHD, especially when you look at drugs that are classified as amphetamines.
The major problem with stimulants, however, is the fact that the body can quickly accumulate resistance to the effects of these drugs. This is yet another reason why some people may turn to non-stimulant medications instead.
Side effects of ADHD medication
When taken as prescribed, ADHD medications are generally well tolerated. However, they can still cause some side effects.
The side effects of the medical treatment the patient receives largely depend on the medication that a medical professional prescribes. In many cases, especially with stimulant medication, the patient may experience these common side effects:Sleeping problems (insomnia)
Nausea and vomiting
Pain in the upper abdomen
Agitation
Anxiety symptoms
Constipation
Dizziness
Feeling nervous
Irritability
Changes in sexual function and libido
Some men report the development of erectile dysfunction shortly after they start using amphetamines or other stimulant drugs that are used for ADHD. This is usually a temporary side-effect, and it should improve over time.
In rare cases, ADHD medication may cause serious side effects. These can include:Drug abuse: There is a serious risk for abuse among people who use stimulants as a way of dealing with ADHD. This risk is especially important to note in adult ADHD treatment plans. Doctors may first consider the patient's medical history and record. If they have a history of drug or alcohol abuse, the doctor may rather recommend a non-stimulant. This can help to reduce the risk of abusing stimulant medication.
Overdose: If the patient takes too much of the drug, even on purpose or by accident, then serious adverse effects can occur. This includes serious aggression and anger. The person will seem restless, and they may also see or hear things that are not present in the surrounding area. Fainting, fast breathing and changes in the heartbeat are also common symptoms of taking too much of a stimulant.
Allergic reactions: It is also possible to experience hypersensitivity and allergic reactions to these medications. This accounts for cases of child and adult ADHD treatment. In some rare cases, an allergic reaction can lead to a condition called anaphylaxis. This is a serious reaction that can lead to unconsciousness and even death if it is not treated in a timely manner.
ADHD medication risks
ADHD medication is generally safe, but there are some risks if you have other medical conditions or take certain medications.
Before you take a prescribed ADHD medication, be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions or issues:Experienced cardiovascular symptoms, like high blood pressure, recently.
Have been diagnosed with heart disease.
Frequently experience chest pain or problems with your breathing.
You have a thyroid that is overactive.
Already experience sleep problems, such as insomnia.
You have a history of taking stimulants or alcohol in an abusive manner.
If you easily feel agitated.
When you begin a new medication, make sure to tell your doctor about any other medications, supplements, or herbs you’re taking. Some medications that might interact with amphetamines and some other types of drugs used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder include the following.
It is also important to note that certain supplements may increase or decrease the effects of these medicines. Tell your medical professional if you are taking dietary supplements or other over-the-counter drugs. They can help to determine if you need to make adjustments in order to produce a safer treatment plan.
ADHD treatment and medication FAQs
How should I take ADHD medication?
Carefully assess the instructions provided by the medical professional. You can take the medication without food if your doctor does not specifically state otherwise. You will usually need to take the medication in the morning.
Who shouldn’t take ADHD medication?
People with existing heart problems and those who are easily agitated may experience more serious side effects if they use stimulants to treat ADHD. Those who are already being treated for depression should also be wary of certain ADHD drugs. It is also important to share your medical history with a doctor to ensure they can look for any potential interactions or risks.
How long does it take for ADHD medication to work?
The type of medication you use affects the duration before it starts to show results. If you use stimulants to treat ADHD, then you should experience improvements in symptoms within about an hour. Non-stimulant medications take a bit longer, sometimes several weeks, before you start to notice real improvements in your symptoms.
What should I avoid with ADHD medication?
Do not take ADHD with other stimulants, as this increases the risk of side effects. You should also not combine ADHD medications with other drugs that affect the nervous system.
Which medication is the first choice for ADHD?
Many medical professionals will first use FDA-approved drugs that do not have a stimulating effect on the body. This is a good first-line treatment, and the doctor can then monitor your progress. If you find that it does not provide improvements in your everyday life, your doctor may turn to a stimulant instead.
Can telehealth doctors prescribe ADHD medication?
It is possible for doctors to prescribe ADHD drugs, but it is generally advised to rather turn to a mental health professional who specializes in these behavior problems and conditions. This can help to ensure you get an FDA-approved drug at the right dosage based on your own requirements.
Can I get ADHD meds prescribed online?
We cannot prescribe controlled substances online, but we can prescribe non-controlled ADHD medications online.
Can an online doctor treat ADHD?
While our online doctors cannot prescribe controlled substances that are often used to treat ADHD, there are some non-controlled substances used to treat ADHD, such as Strattera, its generic version atomoxetine, guanfacine, and bupropion, which can all be prescribed online if a patient qualifies after a medication consultation.
Which ADHD medications are controlled substances?
Commonly prescribed medications that are schedule 2 controlled substances include: Adderall, Adderall XR, Vyvanse, Concerta, methylphenidate, Dexedrine, Ritalin, amphetamine / dextroamphetamine, and dextroamphetamine. PlushCare is unable to prescribe controlled substances.
How to get ADHD medication and treatment online

Step 1
Book an ADHD treatment appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2
Talk to your doctor about ADHD.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer. Complete any necessary evaluations.

Step 3
Pick up a prescription to treat ADHD, if prescribed.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy. Prescriptions are provided at the doctor’s discretion. Please note that we do not prescribe controlled substances.
Most major insurance plans accepted
Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less. Paying without insurance? New patient visits are $129, and follow-ups are only $99 for members.
Don’t see your provider listed? Email [email protected] or call (888) 564-4454 to talk to a PlushCare specialist.
Related conditions to ADHD
Some of the conditions related to ADHD include coexisting conditions. These may include:
Anxiety
A person suffering from ADHD can also be suffering from anxiety disorder. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, around half of adults with ADHD also have anxiety disorder. People with anxiety disorder feel intense anxiety or fear persistently in their daily lives, which impedes their daily normal functioning.
Mood disorders
According to CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), approximately 38% of adult ADHD patients also suffer from mood disorder. Mood disorders are characterized by extreme mood swings, and can include depression and bipolar disorder.
Other mental health conditions
ADHD often coexists with other mental disorders. These include:
Autism spectrum disorder
Eating disorders
Oppositional defiant disorder
Sleep disorders
Tourette's syndrome
Learning disabilities
According to CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), children with an ADHD diagnosis tend to have a higher probability of developing learning disorders than children without ADHD. Specifically, approximately half of the children with ADHD have learning disorders, and about 5% of children without ADHD have learning disorders. Common learning disorders are dyslexia and dyscalculia.
ADHD treatment pricing details
How pricing works
To request ADHD treatment and get a new or refill on your prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
Copay
For all visits
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
ADHD treatment resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Mayo Clinic. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children: Symptoms & Causes. Accessed on September 20, 2023 at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/adhd/symptoms-causes/syc-20350889.
Cleveland Clinic. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Stimulant Therapy. Accessed on September 20, 2023 at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11766-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-stimulant-therapy.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Treatment of ADHD. Accessed on September 20, 2023 at https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/treatment.html.