How to Get Off of ADHD Medications

Medications for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can help control the symptoms and allow patients to function more effectively. However, some patients may have unwanted or intolerable side effects from the medication. Others may wish to try a non-drug approach to see if they can control their ADHD cognitively. Getting off ADHD medications is possible, but it must be done carefully and you must have an alternate treatment plan in place.

Things You'll Need

• Doctor
• Counselor or ADHD coach
• Cognitive treatment plan

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Instructions

• 1

  Discuss your desire to get off your ADHD medication with your doctor. According to the ADDitude site, you shouldn't stop ADHD medication cold turkey (see Resources). A doctor can let you know the proper way to taper off the medication gradually. If you're not already getting counseling as part of your ADHD treatment plan, he may also be able to recommend a counselor who will help you develop a solid cognitive plan to deal with your ADHD symptoms. ADDitude says you may also want to consider a specialized ADHD coach to help you with your plan.

• 2

  Before beginning your withdrawal from the medication, work with a counselor or ADHD coach to develop an alternate treatment plan. Focus on the ways in which your ADHD has a negative impact on your everyday life. A good plan will help you find ways to incorporate structure and keep yourself on task, as well as give you outlets for your energy.

• 3

  Begin practicing your cognitive ADHD treatment plan before you stop taking your medication. It's usually too stressful to stop the medication at the same time as you're trying to change your behaviors. Practice it for a month to be sure that the new coping skills are becoming a regular part of your life that can simply continue once you are off the ADHD medication.

• 4

  Once you have incorporated your cognitive plan into your life and it seems to be working well, taper off your ADHD medication in the way that your doctor advised. Don't just stop taking your pills if your doctor told you to gradually work your way down. Even though ADDitude says that withdrawal symptoms caused by stopping ADHD medications are rare, a cautious approach may ensure that nothing adverse happens.

• 5

  Continue going to counseling, and evaluate the results of your cognitive plan regularly to make sure that your ADHD is being controlled without the medication. If you find that you are struggling and the ADHD symptoms are having a major negative impact, you may want to consider starting medication again.