ADHD Medication List
Learn about medications to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This ADHD medication list provides information on how the drugs perform, their side effects and how long they last.
Stimulants:
These drugs -- such as methylphenidate and amphetamines -- aid in focusing and reducing the impulsivity and hyperactivity by increasing communication between brain nerves. Because they can be a trigger for abuse, stimulants are regulated substances.
Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain. They include norepinephrine and dopamine, which help people pay attention and avoid distractions. These are the most common treatments for ADHD. About 80percent of people with the condition say that they have been relieved of their symptoms with these medications. The majority of stimulant medicines are taken in pill form, however, some are available in liquid or patch form. The stimulants are available in immediate-release and prolonged-release formulations. Short-acting drugs reach their peak within a couple of hours and must be taken 3 times a day. Long-acting medicines are absorbed slowly by the body, lasting between 8 and 12 hours.
A variety of stimulants are sold under brand names, such as methylphenidates, amphetamines, Dextroamphetamine and lisdexafetamine also known as Vyvanse. They are controlled substances that come with the risk of abuse and addiction. People may experience side effects, such as stomach issues or changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Certain sufferers also develop tics which are repetitive movements or sounds, such as eye blinking or clearing the throat. The stimulants can also decrease appetite and can cause people to lose weight.
Non-stimulant medication for ADHD
Wellbutrin, Strattera and other drugs are categorized as "non-stimulants" as they don't perform in the same way as stimulants do. However, they do can affect symptoms. These drugs have a lower risk of causing side effects, like insomnia or agitation, and generally prove more effective for some adults than stimulants. However, some individuals have trouble tolerating these medicines and are not affected by these medications.
Antidepressants
If other ADHD medications aren't working or cause unacceptably side effects, doctors can prescribe antidepressants to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as well. These include atypical antidepressants such as Wellbutrin and Clonidine, as well as older tricyclic antidepressants such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate). These medications are not recommended for children who are not yet of 10, as they could cause a sedative effect which could be harmful.
Stimulant withdrawal
Many people who have been taking ADHD medication for a long time suddenly stop taking it, which can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. To avoid this the doctors usually reduce the dosage gradually over a few weeks. If this doesn't help some patients, they may have to switch to a different type of medication.
If adhd and medication or your children are having difficulty finding a medication that works, keep trying. Also, be open with your doctor. The majority of people have to test different dosages and formulas until they discover a treatment that is effective for them. To find out more about the drugs on this ADHD medication list Click on a drug to view its complete description and other important details. The chart provides dosages, special warnings and other important facts. The information is organized according to the name of the drug and is based on research published in medical journal. The chart looks best when displayed on an enormous monitor. You can download it here. You can also print a version. The chart includes dosages, formulations, special warnings and other vital information for a wide range of ADHD medications including stimulants like Adderall, Vyvanse and Ritalin and nonstimulants such as Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Intuniv, Qelbree and Wellbutrin.