ADHD medications can be prescribed by several types of healthcare professionals who have the authority to diagnose and treat ADHD. These include:
- Psychiatrists: Medical doctors specializing in mental health who can diagnose ADHD and prescribe both stimulant and non-stimulant medications
- Primary Care Physicians (PCPs): Family doctors, internists, and pediatricians who can diagnose ADHD and prescribe medication, often serving as the first point of contact for ADHD treatment
- Pediatricians: Especially important for diagnosing and treating ADHD in children, they can prescribe ADHD medications and coordinate care
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs): These professionals can prescribe ADHD medications under the supervision of a doctor and often provide a holistic approach to care
Other professionals like psychologists, social workers, and therapists can diagnose ADHD or provide therapy but cannot prescribe medications
. Because ADHD medications, especially stimulants, are controlled substances, prescribing them requires careful evaluation and ongoing monitoring by these qualified medical providers
. In summary, ADHD meds are primarily prescribed by psychiatrists, primary care physicians (including pediatricians), nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, all of whom are medical professionals authorized to prescribe medication
