By Domenic Chindamo, Pharmacist & Owner, Lygon Everyday Chemist ..Here For Good

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is increasingly recognised in children, teens, and adults across Australia. But behind every diagnosis is a person trying to thrive at school, work, home, and in daily life. After 38 years in pharmacy, I’ve seen one thing clearly:

ADHD is manageable when people have the right support around them.

Your pharmacist is one of the most accessible and important members of that support team.

The 3 Types of ADHD

Understanding your ADHD type helps tailor your treatment plan.

1. Inattentive Type

• Easily distracted
• Loses things
• Forgets tasks
• Quiet, internal symptoms

2. Hyperactive-Impulsive Type

• Restless
• Interrupts or talks over others
• Fidgeting
• Difficulty sitting still

3. Combined Type

The most common type, with features of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive styles.

How Your Pharmacist Supports ADHD Management

1. Medication Safety & Interaction Checks

ADHD medications - such as Ritalin, Vyvanse, Dexamphetamine, Concerta and Atomoxetine - can interact with:

• Antidepressants
• Anxiety medication
• Stimulants and energy drinks
• Herbal products (e.g., St John’s Wort)
• Some vitamins
• Blood pressure medication

We conduct medicine interaction checks, monitor blood pressure & heart rate, and provide advice on issues like appetite suppression, sleep, and timing of doses.

A Medication Review (MedsCheck) is one of the best ways to ensure your treatment is safe and effective.

2. Difficulty Swallowing? We Can Help.

Many ADHD patients - especially children and older adults - struggle with swallowing medications due to:

• Gag reflex sensitivity
• Dysphagia
• Anxiety around tablets or capsules

At Lygon Everyday Chemist we offer two specialist solutions:

Medication Compounding

Where appropriate, some medicines can be compounded into:

• Liquids
• Suspensions
• Smaller capsules
• Flavoured formats (if suitable)

Medasyst Ultrasonic Liquification

A breakthrough device that safely turns many solid oral medicines into a smooth liquid without crushing - preserving full dosage and avoiding medication loss.

If swallowing is an issue for you or your child, talk to us first. We’ll help determine the safest and most appropriate option.

3. Compliance, Routine & Reminders

ADHD medicines work best when taken consistently. We support you with:

• The Lygon Everyday Chemist App - order repeats, set reminders, track your schedule
• DAA (Webster Packs) for weekly organisation
• Scripts-on-file so you never run out
• Advice on ideal timing (morning vs school/work routines)

Better consistency = better symptom control and healthier daily routines.

4. Foods That May Support ADHD Symptoms

A balanced, whole-food diet can support energy, focus, and mood. Helpful foods:

• Omega-3 rich fish (salmon, sardines)
• Eggs
• Leafy greens
• Berries
• Nuts & seeds
• Whole grains
• Fresh fruit and vegetables

Foods to reduce:

• Energy drinks
• Sugary cereals
• Highly processed snacks
• Artificial colourings
• Heavy fast foods

5. Vitamins & Supplements With Evidence

We stock quality, evidence-based brands including BioCeuticals, Ethical Nutrients, Herbs of Gold, Thompson’s.

Common supports:

• Omega-3 fatty acids – cognitive support
• Magnesium – may help with restlessness & sleep
• Zinc – supports neurotransmitter balance
• Iron – low levels linked to attention issues
• B-vitamins – energy metabolism
• Probiotics – emerging gut-brain research

Always check with us before starting any supplement - especially if you’re on prescription medication.

6. You Are Not Alone - Support Exists

ADHD can feel isolating, but it shouldn’t. Support is available through:

• Pharmacists
• GPs
• Psychologists
• Occupational therapists
• ADHD coaches
• Teachers
• Community groups
• National help lines

We also list help lines on the Lygon Everyday Chemist website, including mental health and ADHD support services.

How Lygon Everyday Chemist Helps ADHD Patients

• Personalised medication reviews
• ADHD-safe supplement guidance
• DAA/Webster packing
• Compounding (where appropriate)
• Medasyst tablet-to-liquid support
• Script management
• Heart-rate & blood pressure checks
• Sleep, gut health & energy support
• Holistic care for co-existing symptoms (anxiety, insomnia, migraines, reflux)

Everything we do aligns with our mission:

Supporting and growing community health and vitality - through connection, education and innovation.

Need ADHD Support? We’re Here For Good.

Pop in for a private chat, call us, or message us through our pharmacy app.

Whether it’s medication, swallowing difficulties, routines, supplements or reassurance - you don’t need to do this alone.