Important Safety Information About ADHD Medicines
If you are taking a medicine for ADHD prescribed by our practice — either on its own or under a shared care agreement with your specialist team — please read this information carefully.
These medicines can be very effective, but they also carry some important risks.
We want to make sure you understand how to use them safely and know when to seek help.
Why this information matters
A coroner recently investigated the tragic death of a patient taking a similar medicine. The coroner’s report highlighted two important safety issues that affect anyone prescribed these types of medicines:
- Monitoring blood pressure and pulse – ADHD medicines can affect the heart. Regular and reliable checks of your blood pressure and heart rate are essential. Treatment decisions should not be based only on home readings that have not been checked by a health professional.
- Clear written advice – Patients should always receive written information about possible side effects, what to look out for, and when to seek help.
You can read the coroner’s full report here:
Jacob Wooderson – Prevention of Future Deaths Report (judiciary.uk)Possible risks and side effects
Medicines used to treat ADHD, such as stimulants, can sometimes cause the following:
- Heart problems – including a fast or irregular heartbeat, palpitations, fainting, chest pain, or high blood pressure.
- In very rare cases, these heart problems can lead to serious events such as sudden cardiac arrest or death.
- Circulatory changes – such as cold fingers or toes, or changes in skin colour.
- Mental health changes – including mood swings, agitation, anxiety, or new or worsening thoughts of self-harm.
- Other effects – such as headaches, stomach pain, difficulty sleeping, or reduced appetite.
These risks increase if the medicines are combined with illegal drugs or excessive alcohol.
The serious problems are uncommon, but it’s important to be aware of them so you can act quickly if they occur.
Regular checks of your blood pressure and heart rate are designed to reduce this risk and keep you safe.
What this means for you
- You should continue to have your blood pressure and pulse checked regularly. These checks need to be done in a reliable way — for example, at the surgery or at your specialist clinic.
- We will ask you to attend for in-person checks at least every six months, and sooner if your dose changes.
- If we do not have reliable readings, we will not be able to continue prescribing your medicine.
- If you experience any of the symptoms listed above — especially chest pain, fainting, palpitations, or severe mood changes — please seek urgent medical help.
Your safety is our top priority
We are sharing this information to help ensure your ADHD medicine is used as safely as possible.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the practice.
