ADHD Medication List
Learn about medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD). This ADHD medication list provides information on how the medications work, their side effects, and how long it lasts.
Stimulants:
These drugs -- such as methylphenidate and amphetamines -- aid in improving focus and reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity through enhancing the communication between brain nerves. They are controlled substances as they are abused.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain. They include norepinephrine and dopamine which assist people to pay attention and ignore distractions. These are the most frequently prescribed treatments for ADHD and around 90% of those suffering from the condition find that their symptoms get better through these medications. The majority of stimulant medicines are taken as pills however, some are available in patch or liquid form. The stimulants are available in immediate-release and extended-release formulas. Short-acting drugs peak within a couple of hours and must be taken 3 times a day. Long-acting medications are absorbed slowly by the body, lasting from 8 to 12 hours.
There are numerous brand-name stimulants available, including methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta), amphetamines (Adderall, Dextroamphetamine) and Lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). These are controlled substances with the potential for abuse and addiction. Some people may experience adverse effects like stomach problems and changes in heart rate or blood pressure. Some people experience tics which are a repeated sound or movement such as blinking their eyes or clearing the throat. Stimulants also reduce appetites and may cause people to lose weight.
Non-stimulant medication to treat ADHD
The medications Wellbutrin and Strattera are considered to be "non-stimulants" because they don't function in the same way as stimulants, however they have an effects on symptoms. most effective adhd medication for adults have a lower chance of having side effects such as agitation or insomnia, and generally are more effective for certain adults than stimulants. Some people are not able to tolerate these medications and they are not helpful.
Antidepressants
Doctors may prescribe antidepressants for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) if other ADHD medication fail, or if they produce too many adverse effects. These include atypical antidepressants like Wellbutrin and Clonidine, as well as older tricyclic antidepressants, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate). They aren't recommended for children as they can have a powerful sedative effect, which can be risky.
Stimulant withdrawal
Many people who take ADHD medication for a long time, then suddenly stop taking it, which can result in severe withdrawal symptoms. To avoid this doctors usually reduce the dosage over a time of time. If this doesn't help some patients, they may need to switch to a different type of medication.
If you or your children are having difficulty finding a medication that works, keep trying. Also, be open to discussing your medical concerns with your doctor. Most people need to experiment with different dosages and formulations until they find a treatment that works for them. To learn more about drugs listed on this ADHD medication list Click on a drug to see its full description and important information. The chart includes dosages, warnings specific to the medication and other important details. The information is arranged according to the name of the drug and is based upon research published in medical journal. The chart is best seen on large screens. Download it here. A printable version is also available. The chart includes dosages, formulations, and warnings for a range of ADHD medications. These include stimulants such as Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin, and nonstimulants such as Strattera, Intuniv (which will be removed in 2023), Qelbree, and Wellbutrin.