How to Get ADHD Medication Privately in the UK (2025)

Wondering how to get ADHD medication privately in the UK? This guide explains the process, options, costs, and what to expect when accessing private ADHD treatment through a nurse-led clinic.

Can You Get ADHD Medication Privately in the UK?

Yes — it is entirely legal and safe to access ADHD medication privately in the UK through qualified healthcare professionals.

After a full clinical assessment and confirmed ADHD diagnosis, a nurse prescriber or psychiatrist can issue private prescriptions for appropriate medication, following NICE guidelines.

Private ADHD prescribing is suitable for:

• Adults recently diagnosed through a private clinic

• Adults waiting for NHS shared care to be arranged

• Individuals who prefer private care for flexibility or speed

NHS vs Private ADHD Prescribing

FeatureNHSPrivateAccessLong wait times (12–24+ months)2–4 weeks post-assessmentChoice of clinicianNHS assignedYou choose providerFlexibilityFixed pathwaysMore personal, flexible careCostsFreePrescription and service fees apply

Many clients choose to start privately for speed, then transition to NHS shared care when possible.

Who Can Prescribe ADHD Medication Privately?

• Nurse Prescribers (independent nurse prescribers specialising in ADHD)

• Consultant Psychiatrists

At our clinic, all prescriptions are issued by fully qualified nurse prescribers with ADHD expertise.

How to Access Private ADHD Prescriptions

1. Full ADHD Assessment Medication can only be prescribed after a full clinical assessment confirming ADHD diagnosis.

2. Treatment Planning If medication is appropriate, the prescriber will discuss options and issue an initial prescription.

3. Follow-Up Regular follow-up is required to ensure safety, tolerability, and effectiveness.

4. Ongoing Prescribing Once stabilised on a suitable medication and dose, repeat prescriptions can be provided.

Costs of Private ADHD Medication UK

At our clinic:

• Follow-up consultation: from £125 (required for repeat prescribing)

• Private prescription fee: £30 per item

• Medication cost (paid to pharmacy): varies (£40–£80/month typical, depending on medication)

Example monthly costs:

ItemCostFollow-up (every 3 months)£125Prescription fee£30Medication (pharmacy)~£60

How Shared Care Works (GP + Private Prescriber)

Many clients begin treatment privately, then transition to shared care with their GP.

Shared Care = your NHS GP prescribes ADHD medication on the NHS, with ongoing clinical oversight provided by our nurse prescribers.

Important: Not all GPs or NHS areas offer shared care for ADHD. We will advise and can liaise with your GP after private assessment.

What to Expect from Private ADHD Prescribing

• Fully regulated, CQC-registered clinic

• Prescribers follow NICE guidelines

• Medication options include:

  • Methylphenidate (Concerta, Medikinet)

  • Lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse)

  • Atomoxetine (Strattera)

• Full treatment plan + ongoing review

• Safe, professional prescribing with clear costs

FAQs

Do I need a diagnosis before getting medication? Yes. Medication is only prescribed after a full ADHD assessment.

Can I request a specific ADHD medication? We will always consider your preferences, but prescribing is based on clinical suitability.

Can my GP take over prescribing? Often, yes — via shared care. We can advise and liaise with your GP.

Is private prescribing legal? Yes. Our nurse prescribers are fully qualified and work under UK law and CQC standards.

Ready to take the next step?

Join our early-access list today and be among the first to access private ADHD treatment through our nurse-led clinic.