ADHD Treatments in Bondi and Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs: Medications, Psychological Support and Ongoing Care
In our earlier post ‘ADHD Assessment & Treatment in Bondi | A Bondi doctors/GP Update’ we discussed common ADHD symptoms, ADHD types and Diagnosis pathways. We also touched on the reasons for the surge in adult ADHD diagnoses. This article focuses predominantly on ADHD Treatments and Medications.
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis is often a significant turning point. Many people describe finally understanding why they have struggled with concentration, organisation, time management or impulsivity despite their best efforts. Fortunately, ADHD is one of the most treatable neurodevelopmental conditions, and many people experience meaningful improvements in their daily functioning with appropriate treatment.
At Ocean Medical Practice – Bondi’s trusted Medical Centre, we believe that successful ADHD management involves much more than simply prescribing medication. The best outcomes are achieved through an individualised treatment plan that may include medication, psychological support, education, lifestyle strategies and regular medical follow-up.
Is Medication Always Required?
Not everyone diagnosed with ADHD requires medication. Some patients with mild symptoms may benefit primarily from behavioural strategies, workplace or school adjustments, psychological therapy and lifestyle modifications. Others with moderate to severe symptoms may find that medication substantially improves their ability to function at work, school and home.
The decision to commence medication is always made after considering:
- The severity of symptoms
- The degree of impairment in everyday life
- Medical history
- Cardiovascular risk factors
- Personal preferences
- Occupational requirements
- Pregnancy planning or breastfeeding
- Other mental health conditions
Medication should always form part of a broader management plan rather than being viewed as a standalone solution.
ADHD Medications Available in Australia
The medications used to treat ADHD broadly fall into two categories:
Stimulant Medications
Stimulants are considered the first-line treatment for many children, adolescents and adults with ADHD. Despite the name, these medications improve attention and reduce impulsivity by increasing the availability of dopamine and noradrenaline in specific areas of the brain responsible for executive functioning.
When prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully, stimulant medications have been shown to improve concentration, reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity, enhance organisational skills and improve quality of life for many people with ADHD.
The two main stimulant groups available in Australia are:
Methylphenidate
Examples include immediate-release and long-acting formulations. These medications may:
- Improve concentration, Improve task completion
- Reduce distractibility, Reduce impulsive behaviour; and
- Assist with organisation
Long-acting preparations often provide symptom control throughout the school or working day while reducing the need for multiple daily doses.
Lisdexamfetamine and Dexamphetamine
These medications also increase dopamine and noradrenaline activity within the brain and are commonly prescribed for both adolescents and adults with ADHD. Many patients appreciate the smoother symptom control provided by long-acting formulations, while some individuals benefit from short-acting preparations depending on their daily routine and clinical needs.
The choice of medication is highly individual. Some patients respond better to methylphenidate, while others experience greater benefit from amphetamine-based medications. It is common for psychiatrists to adjust medication type or dose before finding the most effective regimen.
Non-Stimulant Medications
Not everyone can take stimulant medication. Non-stimulant medications may be recommended when:
- Stimulants are ineffective
- Side effects are troublesome
- Certain medical conditions are present
- There is concern regarding misuse; or
- Patients prefer a non-stimulant option
Commonly prescribed non-stimulant medications include:
Atomoxetine
Atomoxetine works by increasing noradrenaline activity in the brain. Unlike stimulant medications, it does not have immediate effects and may take several weeks before benefits become noticeable. It may be particularly useful for patients who also experience anxiety or who cannot tolerate stimulant therapy.
Guanfacine
Guanfacine is sometimes prescribed for children and adolescents and may be particularly helpful for hyperactivity, impulsivity and emotional regulation.
Other Medications
In selected situations, psychiatrists or your GP may recommend other medicines as part of an individual treatment plan, particularly when ADHD occurs alongside anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions.
Common Benefits of ADHD Medication
Many patients notice improvements in several aspects of daily life. Potential benefits include:
- Improved concentration and better memory
- Greater productivity and better organisation. Reduced procrastination
- Improved emotional regulation and reduced impulsive decision-making
- Increased work performance and improved academic performance
- Improved relationships and Increased confidence
- Better driving safety
Medication does not change a person’s personality or intelligence. Instead, many people describe finally being able to use their existing abilities more effectively.
Common Side Effects of ADHD Medications
Like all prescription medicines, ADHD medications can cause side effects. Fortunately, many side effects are mild, temporary and improve as the body adjusts to treatment or after dose adjustments. Common side effects include:
Reduced Appetite
Loss of appetite is among the most common side effects of stimulant medications. Some people experience:
- Weight loss
- Reduced daytime appetite
- Skipping meals
Strategies such as eating a nutritious breakfast before medication, planning healthy evening meals and monitoring weight can help minimise this effect.
Difficulty Sleeping
Some patients experience insomnia, particularly if stimulant medication is taken later in the day. Your psychiatrist or GP may recommend:
- Earlier dosing
- Adjusting medication type
- Improving sleep hygiene
- Reviewing caffeine intake
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth may occur with stimulant medications. Simple measures include:
- Drinking water regularly
- Chewing sugar-free gum
- Maintaining good dental hygiene
Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
Stimulant medications may cause modest increases in heart rate and blood pressure. For this reason, patients usually require regular monitoring before and during treatment. People with significant cardiovascular disease may require additional assessment before commencing stimulant medication. Your GP may arrange ECG (electrocardiogram) testing.
Anxiety
Some individuals notice increased anxiety, particularly during the early stages of treatment. Others actually experience reduced anxiety once their ADHD symptoms improve. This highlights the importance of individualised treatment and ongoing review.
Headaches
Mild headaches may occur during the first few weeks of treatment. These often settle with time or after medication adjustments.
Mood Changes
Some patients report:
- Irritability
- Emotional sensitivity
- Mood fluctuations
These symptoms should always be discussed with your treating doctor.
Less Common Side Effects
Less commonly, patients may experience:
- Tics
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Dizziness
- Skin reactions
- Significant mood changes
Rare but serious adverse effects should always be assessed promptly. Patients should never stop or alter prescribed medication without discussing this with their treating doctor.
Ongoing Monitoring is Essential
ADHD medication should always be monitored carefully. Regular follow-up appointments allow your doctor to assess:
- Symptom improvement
- Medication effectiveness
- Side effects
- Blood pressure
- Heart rate
- Weight
- Sleep quality
- Mental health
- Workplace or school functioning
Medication doses often require adjustment during the first few months before the optimal regimen is established.
At Ocean Medical Practice Bondi, Dr Thao Nguyen is an ADHD continuation prescriber. An ADHD continuation prescriber is a GP who has completed specific training to take over your ongoing, routine prescriptions for stimulants (for example, dexamphetamine, Vyvanse, or Ritalin). Importantly, you must have an established diagnosis from a paediatrician or psychiatrist, and be on a stable dose of medication before prescriptions can be continued.
Psychological Therapies for ADHD
Medication is only one component of comprehensive ADHD care. Many patients also benefit from psychological therapies that teach practical skills for managing everyday challenges. Evidence-based approaches include:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT can help patients:
- Develop organisational strategies
- Manage procrastination
- Improve emotional regulation, Reduce anxiety
- Address negative thinking patterns
ADHD Coaching
Professional ADHD coaches help individuals develop systems for:
- Time management, Goal setting
- Workplace performance, Accountability
- Daily routines
Parent Training
For children with ADHD, parent education programs provide practical strategies for:
- Managing behaviour and Supporting emotional regulation
- Improving communication
- Establishing routines
Educational Support
Many school-aged children benefit from:
- Individual learning plans
- Classroom adjustments, Teacher support strategies
- Extra examination time where appropriate
Lifestyle Strategies That Make a Difference
Healthy lifestyle habits can significantly improve ADHD symptoms and complement medical treatment. Patients are encouraged to:
Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity has been shown to improve attention, mood and executive functioning.
Prioritise Sleep
Poor sleep can worsen ADHD symptoms considerably. Maintaining consistent sleep routines is an important part of treatment.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Although no specific diet cures ADHD, maintaining good nutrition supports overall brain health. Most people do not require restrictive elimination diets unless there is a confirmed food allergy or intolerance.
Reduce Alcohol and Recreational Drug Use
Alcohol and recreational drugs may worsen ADHD symptoms and interfere with prescribed medications.
Develop Organisational Systems
Useful strategies include:
- Digital calendars, Reminder apps, Task lists
- Time-blocking techniques, Visual planners, Medication reminders
These practical tools often complement medication very effectively.
ADHD Treatment is Highly Individualised
Every person’s ADHD journey is different. Some patients achieve excellent symptom control with medication alone, while others benefit most from combining medication with psychological therapy, coaching and lifestyle modifications.
Regular review with your healthcare team allows treatment to evolve as your circumstances change.
At Ocean Medical Practice Bondi, our goal is to provide ongoing, patient-centred care that supports your long-term health, wellbeing and quality of life.
In the final section of this guide, we explain why accessing ADHD treatment in Australia can sometimes be challenging, recent NSW changes that allow some patients to receive ongoing ADHD prescriptions through their GP in collaboration with their psychiatrist, and how Dr Thao Nguyen can assist eligible patients with ongoing ADHD medication management.
Last medically reviewed: 8 July 2026
Reviewed by: Doctors at Ocean Medical Practice – Bondi Medical Centre
Location: Bondi Road, Bondi NSW
