How To Tell If ADHD Medication Is Working

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Is my ADHD medication working?

Medically reviewed by Nicole Washington, DO, MPH — Written by Jon Johnson — Updated on August 4, 2025

How to tell if it's working
Types
Side effects
When to change medication
Summary

It can be difficult to tell whether ADHD medication is working, as the signs may be subtle. However, improvements in focus, emotional stability, and energy levels can indicate that medications are effective.

It may not always be clear when attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications are working. Some types of ADHD medication work faster than others, and initial symptom improvement may not be noticeable.

In this article, we assess how a person can tell if ADHD medications are working and discuss their potential side effects.

How to tell if ADHD medication is working

Female hands holding pills and glass of water, taking medicine in morning — MementoJpeg/Getty Images

When a few symptoms improve, this is a good indication that ADHD medication is working. To tell whether a medication is effective, it is important to understand what it is designed to do. Doctors may prescribe medications to:

help a person focus
balance emotions
make daily energy levels more even
reduce impulsive behaviors

It is unlikely that all symptoms will disappear completely, but most ADHD medications can help to make physical and mental symptoms more manageable.

Medication may be working if a person is:

feeling less anxious
consciously controlling impulsive behaviors
noticing fewer changes in mood

When medication is working, some symptoms may remain, while others become easier to handle.

Practical terms

In practical terms, the following are signs that medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is effective. A person may notice themselves:

finishing small or “boring” tasks
waking up and leaving the house on time more regularly
easily recalling details from conversations
remembering details from meetings or work emails
recalling things learned in class that day
finishing small assigned tasks at work
cleaning up after themselves
going to bed on time
finishing homework assignments
avoiding distractions like social media or television while working

Types of ADHD medications

Medications to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) fall into two categories: stimulant medications and nonstimulant medications.

Stimulants

Stimulants are the first-line treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. These medications act on norepinephrine and dopamine, two brain chemicals that play a role in the condition. Stimulant medications may start working within hours of a person taking them.

Several stimulant options are available, including Adderall, Vyvanse, and Concerta.

Nonstimulants

Nonstimulant ADHD medications are slower-acting than stimulants, and people may only notice symptom improvement after 4 to 8 weeks. They are not a first-line medication for the condition.

Nonstimulant medications affect levels of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine in the brain. Medications include Strattera, Qelbree, and Intuniv.

»Discover:Compare the types of ADHD medication

Side effects of ADHD medications

Most ADHD medications have side effects, and these can show that the drug is having an effect on the body.

Side effects of ADHD medications can impact each individual differently. If they become difficult or impossible to manage, a doctor should adjust the medication.

Side effects of stimulant drugs

Side effects for stimulant-type drugs often include:

increased heart rate or blood pressure
decreased appetite
trouble falling or staying asleep
irritability, as the medicine wears off
nausea or vomiting
headaches
changes in mood

These should be manageable for most people, and they may fade after a few weeks of taking the medication.

Side effects of nonstimulant drugs

Nonstimulant drugs for ADHD can also cause side effects. These vary, based on a person’s age and the type of drug.

Side effects may include:

dizziness
decreased appetite
upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting
fatigue and drowsiness
insomnia
constipation
dry mouth or throat
persistent cough
itching or skin issues

Sexual side effects can also occur. A person may experience a loss of interest in sex or trouble having an orgasm.

While side effects show that the drug is having an effect on the body, they do not always indicate that the medicine is working.

Anyone who experiences side effects without noticing a change in their symptoms may need to see a doctor, who can alter their dosage or switch their medication.

»Read more:Long-term effects of ADHD medication

When to change medication

The following are some common signs that ADHD medication should be adjusted:

irritability or increased hyperactivity when the medication is in a child’s system
consistent weight loss or problems with appetite
symptoms that respond well to medication during work or school hours, but seem to get worse at home in the evening
reduced ADHD symptoms coupled with changes in personality or the ability to feel emotions

Signs that medication should be changed vary. The dosage may be too high or low, or an individual may need a different type of medication.

Always consult a medical professional to discuss symptoms and potential therapy changes before discontinuing or changing treatment adherence.

Summary

ADHD can affect people differently, and the same is true for ADHD medication. Doctors often have to fine-tune dosages, and some people may notice side effects more than an improvement in symptoms.

Anyone feeling unsatisfied with the results of their medication or experiencing side effects with no reduction in symptoms should see a doctor to discuss other options.

ADHD / ADD

How we reviewed this article:

SourcesMedical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Nanda A, et al. (2023). Adverse effects of stimulant interventions for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A comprehensive systematic review.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10601982/
Mechler K, et al. (2022). Evidence-based pharmacological treatment options for ADHD in children and adolescents.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S016372582100142X#s0010
Pang L, et al. (2021). Retrospective analysis of adverse events associated with non-stimulant ADHD medications reported to the United States Food and Drug Administration.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33780716/
Treatment and management of ADHD in adults. (n.d.).https://www.aafp.org/family-physician/patient-care/prevention-wellness/emotional-wellbeing/adhd-toolkit/treatment-and-management.html
Treatment of ADHD. (2024).https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/treatment/index.html

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Medically reviewed by Nicole Washington, DO, MPH — Written by Jon Johnson — Updated on August 4, 2025

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