Co-prescribing ADHD medication allows your child’s GP to prescribe stimulant medication under a permit system. This can make ongoing access to treatment easier and reduce the need for frequent review appointments at Geelong Paediatric Group.
This guide outlines the steps involved in arranging co-prescribing with your GP, including applying for permits, managing prescription renewals, and planning follow-up appointments with your paediatrician. Following these steps will help ensure your child’s ADHD treatment remains consistent, effective, and carefully monitored.
Important things to know about co-prescribing
- Co-prescribing is generally considered once your child’s medication has been optimised and they are stable on their current dose.
- Your paediatrician will determine whether co-prescribing is appropriate for your child.
- Changes to medication type, dose adjustments, or treatment concerns may still require review by your paediatrician.
Steps to organise co-prescribing with your GP
1. Arrange a GP appointment
Book an appointment with your GP to organise a prescribing permit. Your paediatrician will provide a letter authorising your GP to apply for this permit.
Please ensure this process is started well before your child requires their next prescription.
2. Wait for permit approval
Permit approval generally takes approximately 4–6 weeks to be processed.
3. Prescription renewals
ADHD stimulant prescriptions are generally valid for 6 months.
When collecting your child’s final repeat prescription, please arrange another appointment with your GP to organise renewal if your child does not have an upcoming appointment with their paediatrician before their prescriptions run out.
4. Follow-up appointments
Please continue to arrange regular review appointments with your paediatrician, usually every 12 months, or more frequently if advised.
5. Ongoing monitoring
During appointments, your GP will monitor:
- Blood pressure
- Height
- Weight
These checks help ensure your child’s medication remains safe and effective.
Please note
Changes in treatment, medication type, or dosage may require review by your paediatrician before adjustments can be made.
If you have concerns about your child’s progress or feel changes may be needed, please contact Geelong Paediatric Group to arrange a review appointment.