ADHD Medication List
Learn about medications to treat ADHD. Learn about the medications used to treat (ADHD). This ADHD medication list contains information on how the drugs perform, the side effects they cause and the length of time they last.
Stimulants:
These drugs, such as methylphenidate (and amphetamines) aid in improving focus and reduce hyperactivity by enhancing the brain's ability to communicate. Because they have the potential for abuse, stimulants are regulated substances.
Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain. Dopamine and norepinephrine are two of the most common stimulants, and they can help people focus and avoid distractions. These are the most frequently prescribed treatments for ADHD and approximately 80percent of people suffering from the condition report that their symptoms get better through these medications. Certain stimulant medicines are available in the form of patches or liquids as well as as pills. The stimulants are available in extended-release and immediate-release forms. Short-acting medications peak within a few hours and are required to be taken 3 times a day. Long-acting drugs are slowly absorbed by the body and last for between 8 and 12 hours.
There are numerous brands of stimulants, such as methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta), amphetamines (Adderall, Dextroamphetamine) and Lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). They are controlled substances that carry the danger of addiction and abuse. Some people may experience adverse effects like stomach problems and changes in heart rate or blood pressure. Certain people also develop tics, which are repetitive sounds or movements like eye blinking or throat clearing. The stimulants can also result in weight loss and decrease appetite.
Non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD
The medications Wellbutrin and Strattera are regarded as "non-stimulants" because they don't work in the same way as stimulants, however they have an impact on symptoms. They are less likely to cause risk of causing side effects, like insomnia or agitation and generally prove more effective for some adults than stimulants. Some people are unable take these drugs and they don't help.
Antidepressants
If other ADHD medicines do not work or cause unacceptable side effects, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as well. These include atypical and tricyclic antidepressants, like Wellbutrin, Clonidine and Phenelzine. They are not advised for children under the age of five because they can cause a strong sedative effect that could be dangerous.
Stimulant withdrawal
Many people who take ADHD medication for a long time suddenly stop taking it, which could cause severe withdrawal symptoms. To prevent this from happening doctors typically reduce the dosage over a number of weeks. If this doesn't work, patients may require switching to a different medication.
If adhd medications or your children are having difficulty finding an effective medication try again. Also, be open with your doctor. Most people need to test different dosages and formulations until they find a solution that is effective for them. To find out more about the drugs on this ADHD medication list click on a pill to view its complete description and vital information. The chart contains dosages, warnings, and important information. The information is organized in accordance with the name of the medication and is based upon research published in medical journals. The chart looks best when displayed on an enormous monitor. You can download it here. You can also print a version. The chart contains dosages, formulations, special warnings and other important facts for a wide range of ADHD medications, including stimulants such as Adderall, Vyvanse and Ritalin and nonstimulants like Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Intuniv, Qelbree and Wellbutrin.