ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants relieve symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. They are available as 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 comes as a four-hour capsule or tablet.
Stimulants
The most common medicine for ADHD is stimulants. They are effective in 70 to 80% of adults and children. medication for inattentive adhd increase the levels of hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, which helps you focus, pay attention and control your impulses. Most stimulants have a 30-minute effect. They can help you reduce fidgeting, interrupting, and finish work and improve your relationships. But they will not eliminate all your symptoms or stop you from experiencing adverse effects.
Stimulant medications come in both long and short-acting doses. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours, and require 2-3 daily doses. Long-acting stimulants should be taken once a day. Some people are prone to experiencing a "crash" that is a sudden drop of energy, mood or hunger as the drug wears off. If you experience this your doctor might prescribe an intermediate stimulant to bridge the gap between doses or switch you to a longer-acting medication.
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, however when they are injected or smoked they quickly reach the brain and produce a rush. Students, athletes, truckers and soldiers have abused these substances. In 2017, two percent of Canadian students reported abusing amphetamines to get high.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines in the sense that it blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine out of the brain. It is available in immediate-release, extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets that are taken at least twice a day. Focalin is also the brand name under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine which is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, boosts the noradrenaline levels in your brain. It's available in the form of tablets or capsules that are to be taken daily, either once or twice. Atomoxetine is approved for use in adults and adolescents who are over 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people find that stimulants do not work or cause adverse side effects, so their doctor may try other medications for ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a mix of stimulants and nonstimulants, may improve your ability to remain focused on your task and manage your emotions. They include Strattera, Tenex (which will be removed in 2023), Kapvay, and Intuniv.
Finding the best ADHD medication may take a while whether it's for you or your child. Be patient and work with your doctor to find a dosage, medication and schedule that is most suitable for you. Use this chart to help remember the names of of the most popular ADHD medications, including stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and non-stimulants like Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv and Qelbree. Click on each medicine for a detailed breakdown of its adverse effects, dosages, formulations and additional aspects.