Shared Care Prescribing-ADHD
Patient Information Leaflet:
This explains the Shared Care Agreement (SCA) for NHS patients diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). A Shared Care Agreement allows your GP and your specialist team to work together to ensure you receive safe and effective treatment for ADHD.
Please note we do not currently accept shared care agreements with private providers.
What is a Shared Care Agreement?
A Shared Care Agreement is an arrangement between you, your specialist team, and your GP surgery. It allows your GP to continue prescribing your ADHD medication once you are stabilised, while your specialist remains responsible for monitoring your condition.
Who is Involved?
You (the patient or parent/guardian) – Responsible for taking medication as prescribed and attending follow-up appointments.
Your specialist team (psychiatrist, ADHD nurse, or specialist clinic) – Responsible for diagnosing ADHD, initiating treatment, monitoring side effects, and ensuring the medication is effective.
Your GP surgery – Responsible for issuing repeat prescriptions and liaising with your specialist if concerns arise.
How Does It Work?
1. Diagnosis & Treatment Initiation
Your specialist team will confirm your ADHD diagnosis and discuss treatment options with you.
If medication is recommended, they will prescribe it initially and monitor your response.
They will provide you with advice on managing ADHD symptoms.
2. Stabilisation & Monitoring
Once you are stable on a suitable dose, your specialist will request your GP to take over prescribing under the Shared Care Agreement.
Your specialist will continue to review your progress at agreed intervals (usually every 6–12 months).
Your GP will monitor your general health, including blood pressure, heart rate, and any side effects.
3. Ongoing Care & Responsibilities
You/your parent or guardian must attend regular reviews and inform your GP or specialist if you experience any side effects or concerns.
Your specialist remains the main point of contact for any medication changes or dosage adjustments.
Your GP will only prescribe medication as per the specialist’s recommendations and may refer you back if issues arise.
What If My GP Cannot Prescribe My Medication?
Not all GPs participate in shared care. If your GP cannot prescribe your medication, you may need to continue getting prescriptions from your specialist team.
Your specialist team will discuss alternative options if needed.
When Might Shared Care Be Stopped?
Your GP may stop prescribing ADHD medication under shared care if:
- You do not attend follow-up appointments with your specialist.
- You experience side effects requiring specialist intervention.
- There are concerns about medication misuse or safety.
- Your specialist recommends stopping or changing treatment.
Further Information & Support
If you have any questions about your ADHD treatment or the Shared Care Agreement, please contact:
ADHD UK – www.adhduk.co.uk
NHS ADHD Information – www.nhs.uk
This leaflet is designed to help you understand the Shared Care Agreement. Please speak to your GP or specialist team if you have any concerns.
Last updated: March 2025
Review due: March 2026