ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants increase levels of brain chemicals like norepinephrine and dopamine, which are used to treat ADHD symptoms. They are available as immediate-release (short acting) and extended release tablets, liquids, and patches.
Stimulants include dextroamphetamine, dextroamphetamine-dextroamphetamine and Adderall. Lisdexamfetamine is available as a four-hour capsule or a tablet.
Stimulants
The most commonly used treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They work well in 70 to 80% adults and children. These drugs boost hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine levels inside the brain, which helps you think more clearly, pay more attention and control impulses. Most stimulants have a 30 minute effect. They can help reduce interruptions and fidgeting, and help you focus, finish tasks and improve your relationships. They can't stop you from experiencing symptoms or side effects.
Long- and short-acting stimulant medications are available. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours and require between 2 and 3 daily dosages. Long-acting stimulants are taken every day. Some sufferers are prone to experiencing a "crash" when the drug wears off, which can cause an abrupt loss of energy and mood or intense hunger. If this happens, your doctor will prescribe an intermediate stimulant, or shift you to longer-acting medication.
adhd no medication 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. They are available in both prescription and over-the-counter versions and, when injected or smoked, they can reach the brain quickly, causing an increase in energy and euphoria. They've been used by athletes, students truck drivers, soldiers, and other athletes. In 2017, about two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines for non-medical reasons.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines, blocking the reuptake and release of norepinephrine, as well as dopamine in the brain. It comes in immediate-release, extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets. They are taken every day, either once or twice. 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 that is present in your brain. It's available as a tablet or capsule to be taken daily, either once or twice. Atomoxetine can be used by adults and adolescents over 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people find that stimulants don't work or cause undesirable side effects their doctor might look at other options for ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) may aid in improving your ability concentrate, stay on task and control your emotions. These include Strattera, Tenex (which will be discontinued in 2023), Kapvay, and Intuniv.
It can take time to find the perfect ADHD medication for your child or you. Consult with your doctor and take your time to find the right medication, dosage and schedule for you. This chart will help you remember some of the names of well-known ADHD medications. These include stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and nonstimulants like Strattera. Click on each medicine to see a detailed breakdown of its side effects, dosages, formulations and additional considerations.