ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals like norepinephrine and dopamine, which treat ADHD symptoms. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, liquids, and patches.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and dextroamphetamine as well as dextro-amphe (Adderall) are examples of stimulants. Lisdexamfetamine is another and comes in a 4-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
Stimulants for ADHD are the most commonly prescribed medications and work well in about 70 to 80 percent of children and adults. These medications increase the levels of hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine that are present in the brain to help you think clearly and pay attention, as well as control your impulses. Most stimulants are effective within 30 minutes. They can decrease interruptions and fidgeting, and help you focus, finish tasks, and improve your relationships. However, they won't remove all symptoms or prevent you from experiencing adverse effects.
Short- and long-acting stimulant drugs are available. Short-acting medications peak after several hours and require three daily doses, whereas long-acting medications are only taken once per day. Some sufferers have the sensation of a "crash", a sudden drop of energy, mood, or hunger as the drug wears off. If this happens the doctor will prescribe an intermediate stimulant, or shift you to a longer-acting drug.
Amphetamines are the most common stimulant medications for ADHD, but they also have a long history of misuse and abuse as recreational drugs or performance-enhancing substances. Both prescription and over-the-counter versions are available, but when they are injected or smoked they rapidly reach the brain and cause an adrenaline rush. They have been abused by athletes, students truck drivers, soldiers, and other athletes. In 2017, around two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines to get high.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines in the sense that it blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine, and dopamine from the brain. It is available as oral tablets that have immediate-release, controlled release or extended-release. These can be taken once or twice every day. Focalin is also the brand name under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine is a FDA-approved drug for ADHD that boosts the amount of noradrenaline in your brain. adhd sleep medication is available as tablets or capsules that can be taken either once or twice a day. Atomoxetine is approved for use in adults and adolescents who are over 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people have found that stimulants aren't effective or cause adverse side effects their doctor might look at other options for ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a mixture of stimulants and nonstimulants can help you remain focused on your task and control emotions. adhd treatment medication include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
Finding the best ADHD medication can be a lengthy process regardless of whether it's for you or your child. Consult with your doctor and take your time to find the appropriate medication, dosage and schedule for you. This chart will help you remember some of the names of popular ADHD medication. These include stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and non-stimulants such as Strattera. Click on the name of each drug to find out more about its side effects, dosages, and formulations.