ADHD Medication List
Learn about the various medications used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This ADHD medication list provides information on how the drugs work, their side effects and the length of time they last.
Stimulants:
These medications -- including amphetamines and methylphenidate aid in improving focus and reducing the impulsivity and hyperactivity by increasing brain nerve communication. They are controlled substances as they are abused.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain. These include dopamine and norepinephrine which aid people in paying attention and not be distracted. These are the most common treatments for ADHD. About 80percent of people with the disorder report that they are relieved from their symptoms by these drugs. The majority of stimulant medicines are taken in pill form, however some are available in a patch or liquid form. Stimulants are available as immediate-release and extended-release formulas. Short-acting medications reach their peak within a few hours and must be taken every day for 2-3 times. Long-acting medications are absorbed slowly by the body, lasting from 8 to 12 hours.
Many stimulants are available under brand names, including amphetamines, methylphenidates Dextroamphetamine, and lisdexafetamine, also known as Vyvanse. They are controlled substances that carry the danger of addiction and abuse. People may experience side effects, including stomach issues or changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Some sufferers also develop tics which are repetitive movements or sounds, such as eye blinking or throat clearing. types of adhd medication can also decrease appetite and may cause people to lose weight.
Non-stimulant medication to treat ADHD
Wellbutrin, Strattera and other medications are classified as "non-stimulants", because they don't function the same way stimulants do. However, they do can affect symptoms. These drugs have a lower chance of having side effects such as agitation or insomnia, and are generally more effective for some adults than stimulants. However, some individuals have difficulty absorbing these drugs and are not affected by them.
Antidepressants
If other ADHD medications aren't working or cause unacceptably side effects, doctors sometimes prescribe antidepressants to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, too. These include tricyclic and atypical antidepressants, like Wellbutrin, clonidine and phenelzine. These drugs are not advised for children under the age of 10 as they may create a sedative reaction that can be dangerous.
Stimulant withdrawal
Many people who have been taking ADHD medication for a long period of time abruptly stop taking it, which could cause severe withdrawal symptoms. To prevent this from happening doctors usually reduce the dosage over a number of time. If this doesn't work some patients, they may need to switch to another type of medication.
If you or your child are trying to find a medicine that helps, keep trying and be in constant contact with your doctor. The majority of people have to try different dosages and formulations until they discover a treatment that is effective for them. To learn more about the medications on this ADHD medication list click on a pill to read its full description and important information. The chart contains dosages, warnings for specific medications and other important details. The information is arranged in accordance with the name of the medication and is based on research published in medical journal. The chart is best viewed on large screens. Download it here. A printable version is also available. The chart includes dosages, formulations, and warnings for a variety of ADHD medications. These include stimulants like Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin as well as non-stimulants such as Strattera, Intuniv (which will be discontinued in 2023), Qelbree, and Wellbutrin.