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Home Formulary 4.0 Central Nervous System 4.4 CNS stimulants and drugs used for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder 4.4.2 Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) in adults

4.4.2 Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) in adults

ChoiceDrugDosage

1st choice

For information

Specialist initiation only

Methylphenidate prolonged-release tablets/capsules                                                                               
Prescribe By Brand Name		Dose:
See BNF for dosing
[off-label use of some preparations of methylphenidate]

2nd choice

For information

Specialist initiation only

Methylphenidate standard release tablets 5mg, 10mg, 20mgDose:
See BNF for dosing
[off-label use]

Prescribing Notes

  • Refer to NICE NG87 ADHD guidance.
  • NICE recommend methylphenidate or lisdexamfetamine as first line pharmacological treatments for adults with ADHD. Refer to NICE for further information and for details of other treatment options.
  • Methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine are amber list drugs and should only be initiated by a specialist with expertise in ADHD- see Shared Care Guideline.
  • Modified-release preparations of methylphenidate should be prescribed by brand. GPs should prescribe the brand of methylphenidate that has been recommended by the specialist.
  • MHRA advises to use caution if switching patients between different long-acting formulations of methylphenidate.

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