ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants work to boost the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. They include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Tricyclics, a more traditional class of antidepressants, are prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. These medications can have severe adverse effects. Doctors typically only prescribe them when stimulants do not work or cause symptoms that are too severe.
Stimulants
The most common medication used to treat ADHD in children and adults is stimulants. They increase the amount of dopamine found in your brain. Most people who take these drugs find that they increase their concentration, reduce fatigue, and decrease hyperactivity and impulsivity. About 70-80% people with ADHD can benefit from stimulants. These medications aren't habit-forming in the doses used to treat ADHD however, they do have a potential for addiction and abuse. People with a history of drug or alcohol abuse, or a family history of substance or mental health issues could be at higher risk for this.
The most popular stimulants used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines. They are available as generics which are less expensive than brand-name medications and are highly favored by insurance companies. Some of these medicines are offered in extended-release tablets which you can take once a week and last up to 16 hours. This may result in fewer "ups and downs" of symptoms, which is especially helpful for school-aged children.
Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes. They generally last for four hours. You can take them two or three times a day. Most often, they are the first medication that your doctor prescribes. Certain of them are available as chewable tablets, liquids or a patch that goes on the skin.
Intermediate and long-acting stimulants can last for as long as 16 hours and are taken once each day in the early morning. They can help prevent the peaks in effectiveness that may occur when short-acting stimulation wears off and can cause extreme hunger and low levels of energy. Many people who use long-acting stimulants supplement them with a small amount immediate-release medications in the afternoon and evening.
There are a number of possible side effects from taking stimulants to treat ADHD that can cause anxiety, stomachaches, headaches as well as loss of appetite and sleepiness. Most of these side effects are moderate to mild and go away after a few weeks as your body adjusts. Talk to your doctor in the event that the side effects are extreme or persist after some weeks.
Non-stimulants
These are also known as non-stimulant ADHD medicines and include atomoxetine (Strattera) varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These medications are known as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include varenicline, atomoxetine and bupropion. adhd and medication are generally considered to have a lower risk for misuse than stimulants, however they can still lead to anxiety, insomnia, or agitation.
The best way to select the best medication for your child or yourself is to consult with your physician who will help you weigh the advantages and risks of each option. Your doctor will take into consideration your medical background, the severity of your symptoms, and any other conditions or illnesses you have. They'll also look at how each medication affects you or your child, and how well it integrates with other treatments. You must inform your doctor of any supplements, foods or drinks that you or your child consume in addition to any prescription or over-the-counter medications you're taking, including antidepressants.