FAQ-ADHD | Marpe Wellbeing

ADHD Clinic & Medication Prescribing

How are ADHD medications prescribed through the clinic?
ADHD medications can be controlled or non-controlled medications and the prescribing and delivery processes differ for each type:

- Controlled Medications: These require a hand-signed private prescription, which is sent directly to Signature Pharmacy for delivery. These prescriptions are usually posted the day after your ADHD titration clinic appointment- please allow 4 working days for your prescription to arrive at the pharmacy.
- Non-Controlled Medications: These include medications like Atomoxetine and are sent electronically for collection at your nominated pharmacy or delivery can be arranged via Signature Pharmacy.

How long will it take for Signature Pharmacy to receive my prescription?
For controlled medications, please allow 4 working days for Signature Pharmacy to receive your hand-signed prescription after it is posted.
How will I receive my medication?
- For controlled medications, Signature Pharmacy will receive the hand-signed prescription, and you will receive a link to pay and arrange delivery. Please check you junk email.
- For non-controlled medications, the prescription can be sent electronically to your nominated pharmacy, where you can either collect the medication or arrange delivery through the pharmacy.
What should I do to avoid running out of medication?
To avoid any gaps in your medication:
- Ensure that your follow-up appointments are scheduled while you still have 4-5 days of medication left
- Moving or rescheduling appointments may cause delays in the process, which could impact your ability to receive your medication on time.
- This allows enough time for the prescription to be processed and delivered without interruption.
Can I request a specific appointment date for my follow-up?
We will do our best to accommodate appointment requests; however, due to the busy schedules of our psychiatrists, it may not always be possible. We encourage scheduling appointments well in advance to ensure continuity of care.
Are there any additional costs for the medication?
Yes, pharmacies charges its own fees for privately prescribed medications, separate from the clinic's consultation fees. You will receive a payment link from the pharmacy once your prescription is ready for delivery.
Why do privately prescribed controlled medications need to be hand-signed?
Privately prescribed controlled medications are subject to strict regulatory requirements and must be prescribed with an ink signed signature to comply with these regulations and ensure safe handling.
What happens if there is a shortage of ADHD medications?
From time to time, there may be national shortages of ADHD medications.. We will keep you updated as much as possible if this occurs. In some cases, this may require switching to an alternative medication. We will discuss the available options with you and work closely with Signature Pharmacy and our psychiatrists to develop the best plan. We appreciate your patience as we navigate these situations to ensure you receive the best possible care.
What happens if I need my prescription urgently?
Due to the standard processing and delivery times for controlled medications, we advise planning ahead to avoid urgent situations. If you need a non-controlled medication urgently, please let us know. Outside appointment slots, please allow 3 working days for medication requests to be responded to.
How can I contact the clinic?
If you need to contact us with regards to your medication, we advise reaching out via email. Alternatively, you can send us a text message on your personalised Marpe Health SMS line for a quicker response.
How can I contact Signature Pharmacy?
To contact Signature Pharmacy directly, please call 0330 111 0440.

Obtaining Your Medications Through Your NHS GP

In many cases, medications can be prescribed and monitored by your NHS GP under a Shared Care Protocol, while we continue to provide reviews when clinically required and on an annual basis.

What is a Shared Care Protocol?
A Shared Care Protocol is an arrangement where your NHS GP agrees to prescribe and monitor your medication, provided certain criteria are met. These typically include:

- Having a named psychiatrist overseeing your care.
- Completing baseline monitoring and investigations specific to your medication.
- Being under the care of the named psychiatrist.
- Being on a stable dose of medication for at least 12 weeks.

Important Note:
Not all NHS GP surgeries accept Shared Care Agreements from private providers. Requirements may vary between practices. We strongly recommend discussing this with your GP to understand their specific policies and requirements.

If a Shared Care Agreement Isn’t Possible:

In the absence of a Shared Care Agreement, you can still obtain your medications directly through our clinic. Prescribing and pharmacy medication fees will apply.

This information was updated Dec 2024.