ADHD medication can make all the difference in the world for women trying to manage life with ADHD. Whether you’ve been recently diagnosed or have known you have ADHD for years, understanding your options for ADHD medication can be helpful as you figure out what's best for you.

Keep in mind that everyone's experience is different. You may have friends or even family members that take medication (or even supplements) for ADHD.  What works wonders for one may not be great for you.

Some may skate by without any side effects while others experience side effects that are disruptive to their lives or are even problematic.

If you suspect you may have ADHD — or know that you do, but haven't sought a diagnosis — you might wonder if an ADHD diagnosis is even necessary.

If you're hesitant to try ADHD medication or don't feel the need to have the validation of a medical diagnosis, you can certainly go through life without getting diagnosed.

But if you want to try prescription medication for ADHD, you would need an ADHD diagnosis.

Some qualified professionals who may be qualifies to diagnose ADHD:

• Primary Care Doctor

• Psychiatrist

• Pediatrician

• Neurologists

• Psychologists

• Social Worker

• Nurse Practitioner

• Licensed Therapist

• Licensed Counselor

• Primary Care Doctor (M.D. or D.O.)

• Pediatrician

• Psychiatrist

• Psychiatry Resident Doctor

• Nurse Practitioner

• Physician's Assistant (PA)

My son was able to get his ADHD medication from his pediatrician, but my doctor referred me to a specialist in Psychiatry both for my diagnosis.

When I later asked my primary care doctor if I could see her for my prescriptions, she was able to issue refills, but said I'd need to see the psychiatrist for any changes in medication. It may be different for you according to where you live and the practices of the medical group.

ADHD medication isn’t cure; but it can improve your ability to function with ADHD. Medication can increase your otherwise low levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. It can help you manage challenging symptoms (like inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity), which can make it much easier for you to complete daily tasks. Medication can also help quiet your mind a bit do you're not so bombarded by your own thoughts.

Many women feel so much more in control with ADHD medication.

The big BUT is that finding the right medication isn't always easy. It may take some trial and error.

Stay in touch with your doctor during the process of trying medication.

Watch for any improvements and watch for symptoms that may not be so great.

Let your doctor know what is working and what's not to find the right medication for you.

There are two categories of ADHD medication: stimulants and non-stimulants. Stimulants are often recommended first because they tend to be helpful and effective. Some women have a hard time tolerating stimulants or don't see improvements. Non-stimulants can be beneficial in addition to a stimulant or on its own.

Stimulants:

• increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain
  Stimulants can be taken once a day or as directed more than once a day

Short Acting Stimulants:

• (3-6 hours) Adderall, Ritalin, Focalin.
  Long acting stimulants can last up to 12 hours, depending on the medication

Extended Release Stimulants:

• (6-12 hours) - Concerta, Vyvanse, Adderall XR,  Focalin XR

Non-Stimulants:

• You may not feel the full effects or benefits of non-stimulants until you've taken them for a few weeks or even months. Non-stimulants may be worth exploring if stimulants aren't helpful.