ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants relieve symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine. 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 available as a four-hour capsule or a tablet.
Stimulants
Stimulants for ADHD are the most frequently used medications and are effective in 70 to 80 percent of adults and children. These medications increase hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, allowing you think clearly, pay more attention and control impulses. Most stimulants have a 30-minute effect. They can reduce interruptions, fidgeting, and finish work and improve your relationships. They will not prevent you from suffering symptoms or adverse effects.
Stimulant drugs are available in both long and short-acting dosages. Short-acting stimulants peak after several hours and require between 2 and 3 daily dosages. Long-acting stimulants are consumed daily. Some people are prone to experiencing a "crash" when the drug wears off, causing an abrupt loss of energy and mood or intense hunger. If you experience this, your doctor may prescribe an intermediate stimulant to bridge the gap between doses or switch you to a more powerful 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, but when they are smoked or injected they rapidly reach the brain and cause an adrenaline rush. They have been abused by athletes, students, truck drivers and soldiers. In 2017, about two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines non-medically.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines in the sense that it blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine out of the brain. It is available as oral tablets with immediate-release, controlled release or extended-release. These can be taken once or twice daily. It's also available under the brand name Focalin.
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 capsule or tablet that can be taken once or twice a day. Atomoxetine is approved for use in adults and adolescents older than 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Certain people find that stimulants don't work or have unpleasant adverse side effects. advice here may try other drugs to treat ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) may help improve your ability to concentrate, stay focused and control your emotions. These include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
It may take some time to determine the best ADHD medication for your child or you. Consult with your doctor and take your time to find the right dosage, medication and schedule that is right for you. Use this chart to assist you remember the names of some of the most sought-after ADHD medications that include stimulants such as Adderall and Vyvanse and nonstimulants such as Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv and Qelbree. Click on the name of each medication to find out more about its side effects, dosages, and formulations.