ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants help treat symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, liquid and patches.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and dextroamphetamine, and dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are examples of stimulants. Lisdexamfetamine comes as a four-hour capsule or a tablet.
Stimulants
here for ADHD is stimulants. They are effective in 70 to 80% of adults and children. These medications increase hormones, such as dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which help you to think clearly, pay attention to and manage impulses. The majority of stimulants have a 30-minute effect. They can reduce the amount of time you spend fiddling around, interrupting and finish tasks as well as improve your relationships. They won't stop you from suffering symptoms or side effects.
Long- and short-acting stimulant medications are available. Short-acting medications peak after several hours and require a minimum of three daily doses, while long-acting drugs can be taken just every day. Some people are prone to experiencing an "crash" when the effects of the drug wear off, causing a sudden drop in mood and energy, or an intense hunger. If you've experienced this, your doctor may prescribe an intermediate stimulant to bridge the gap between doses or change 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. They are available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms and, when injected or smoked, they enter the brain quickly to produce a rush of energy and euphoria. Students, athletes, truckers and soldiers have abused these substances. In 2017, around two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines to get high.
Methylphenidate is like amphetamines because it blocks the reuptake norepinephrine and dopamine from the brain. It comes in immediate-release, extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets. They are taken at least twice a day. Focalin is also the brand name under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, boosts the noradrenaline levels in your brain. It's available as tablets or capsules that can be consumed once or twice daily. Atomoxetine is approved for use in adults and adolescents over the age of 5.
Other Medications for ADHD
Certain people find that stimulants do not work or cause undesirable adverse side effects. Their doctor may then try other drugs to treat ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) can aid in improving your ability concentrate, stay on task and control your emotions. They include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
Finding the right ADHD medication can take a while, whether it is 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 assist you remember the names of some of the most sought-after ADHD medications, including stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and nonstimulants like Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv and Qelbree. Click on the name of each medication to find out more about its adverse effects, dosages and formulations.