Can You Start ADHD Medication After Turning 18 Without Prior Treatment?

Q: Can You Start ADHD Medication After Turning 18 Without Prior Treatment?

Hello： If you continue to experience ADD symptoms in adulthood that cause difficulties in your daily life, you can still consult a physician for discussion and evaluation. <br>There are several medications for attention deficit disorder, some of which have restrictions under heal

Having been diagnosed with ADHD in the past but not having taken medication, is it true that I can no longer take medication after turning 18?

When I was in middle school, I was taken by my parents for an evaluation due to a requirement from my school teachers.
At that time, the doctor diagnosed me with mild ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), characterized by inattention without hyperactivity.
Because it was mild and considering the noticeable side effects of medication experienced by other children of family and friends, my parents were reluctant to let me take medication.
After entering high school, due to the heavy academic workload, I expressed a desire to see a doctor again and consider medication, but they said that I was not exercising self-control and that taking medication would not be effective.
According to my research, parental consent is required for evaluations before the age of eighteen, and the period between eighteen and twenty is somewhat controversial, with some requiring consent and others not.
I initially planned to secretly use my health insurance card to see a doctor after turning eighteen (otherwise, I would struggle to study for my entrance exams, which is very distressing for me).
However, I also learned that doctors here indicate that if I have not been on medication before turning eighteen, health insurance will not cover the cost of medication.

Cǎoméi niúnǎi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/06

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello: If you continue to experience ADD symptoms in adulthood that cause difficulties in your daily life, you can still consult a physician for discussion and evaluation.
There are several medications for attention deficit disorder, some of which have restrictions under health insurance, while others are also available for adult use under health insurance coverage.

Reply Date: 2022/08/06

More Info

Yes, you can start ADHD medication after turning 18, even if you have not received treatment prior to that age. In the United States, once you reach the age of majority (18 years old), you have the legal right to make your own medical decisions, including the decision to seek treatment for ADHD. This means you can consult a healthcare provider and discuss your symptoms, treatment options, and the potential benefits and risks of medication.

It is important to understand that ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) can persist into adulthood, and many adults find that medication can significantly improve their ability to focus, manage time, and complete tasks. If you have been diagnosed with mild ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) in the past, it is still valid to seek treatment as an adult if you continue to experience difficulties that affect your daily life, especially in academic settings.

Regarding insurance coverage, it is true that some insurance plans may have specific requirements for coverage of ADHD medications. If you have not been treated with medication before turning 18, your insurance may require documentation of your diagnosis and a treatment plan from a healthcare provider. This is something you can discuss with your doctor during your appointment. They can help you navigate the insurance requirements and provide the necessary documentation to support your treatment.

When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely conduct a thorough evaluation to assess your current symptoms and how they impact your life. This may include discussing your academic performance, any difficulties you face in concentrating, and how these issues affect your overall well-being. Based on this evaluation, the provider can recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which may include medication, behavioral therapy, or a combination of both.

It is also worth noting that there are various types of medications available for treating ADHD, including stimulants (like methylphenidate and amphetamines) and non-stimulants (like atomoxetine). Each medication has its own profile of effectiveness and potential side effects, so it is crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the right medication and dosage for you.

If you are concerned about the side effects of medication, it is essential to discuss these concerns with your healthcare provider. They can provide information about the potential side effects and help you weigh the benefits of medication against the risks. Additionally, they can monitor your response to the medication and make adjustments as needed to minimize side effects while maximizing effectiveness.

In summary, starting ADHD medication after turning 18 is possible and can be beneficial if you continue to experience symptoms that interfere with your daily life. Be proactive in seeking help, and don’t hesitate to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and treatment goals. They are there to support you in finding the best path forward for managing your ADHD.

Similar Q&A

Understanding ADHD in Adults: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Alternatives

Hello Dr. Liang, I am currently 20 years old. Since childhood, my mother has mentioned that I might have mild symptoms of ADHD, but I have never been formally diagnosed. Generally, I experience significant mood swings, and I sometimes hit walls or lose control of my impulses whe...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, A-Tian: If an adult continues to experience attention difficulties that significantly impact daily functioning, they may still be diagnosed with Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Health insurance regulations require that several long-acting ADHD medica...

Understanding ADD: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Management Options

Hello, doctor. Can Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) be diagnosed at the hospital? If there is no hyperactivity and it is Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), which department should I consult? Aren't those symptoms more common in children? Can a 16-year-old still...

Dr. Song Chengxian reply Psychiatry
Hello: Attention deficit, whether with or without hyperactivity, is treated in mental health or psychiatric clinics. Individuals as young as 16 can seek treatment. Whether medication or non-medication therapy is needed should be assessed and recommended by a physician. Sincerely,...

Managing ADHD and Emotional Challenges: Beyond Medication Solutions

Hello, Doctor: I have had symptoms similar to ADHD since childhood. I was taken to National Taiwan University for an evaluation during kindergarten or early elementary school, but I was not given a detailed diagnosis and the doctor attributed it to parental issues (although it ma...

Dr. Li Jite reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to concerns about ADHD and anxiety. 1. Facing an uncertain future, anxiety disorders are common in modern society. This is a chronic condition that requires long-term treatmen...

Addressing Concerns About Asperger's and ADHD in Young Adults

Hello Doctor: My younger brother, when he was around 7-8 years old, was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome and tendencies towards attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He saw a psychiatrist at that time, who recommended long-term medication treatment. However, our...

Dr. Liang Sunyuan reply Psychiatry
Hello, the military service aspect must be assessed based on the recent condition. A confirmed diagnosis of autism qualifies for exemption from service. If there were suspicions of Asperger's syndrome in childhood, a detailed evaluation of the current level of social impairm...