ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants treat symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine as well as dopamine. They are available as immediate-release (short acting) and extended release tablets, liquids, and patches.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and dextroamphetamine, and dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are examples of stimulants. Lisdexamfetamine comes as a four-hour capsule or tablet.
Stimulants
The most popular treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They are effective in 70 to 80% adults and children. These drugs boost the levels of hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to help you think clearly and focus on your impulses. The majority of stimulants work within 30 minutes. They can help you decrease interruptions, fidgeting, and finish work and improve your relationships. However, they won't eliminate all your symptoms or stop you from suffering from side effects.
Short- and long-acting stimulant drugs are available. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours, and require a minimum of daily dosages. Long-acting stimulants are consumed once a day. Some sufferers are prone to experiencing an "crash" that is a sudden drop of energy, mood, or hunger as the drug wears away. If you have this experience, your doctor may prescribe an intermediate stimulant to fill the gap between doses or change you to a stronger 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 non-prescription versions are available, but when they are smoked or injected, they quickly enter the brain and trigger an adrenaline rush. They've been misused by students, athletes truck drivers, soldiers, and other athletes. In 2017, about two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines in non-medical ways.
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. medication for inattentive adhd are taken every day, either once or twice. It's also available under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, increases the noradrenaline levels in your brain. It's available as tablets or capsules to be taken daily, either once or twice. Atomoxetine is suitable for adults and adolescents older than 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people have found that stimulants aren't effective or cause unpleasant side effects, so their doctor may consider other medications for ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) could aid in improving your ability to focus, stay on task and control your emotions. These include Strattera, Tenex (which will be removed in 2023), Kapvay, and Intuniv.
It can take a while to find the right ADHD medication for your child or you. Be patient and work with your physician to find a dosage, schedule and medication that is most suitable for you. This chart will help you remember some of the names of popular ADHD medication. These include stimulants such as Adderall and Vyvanse, and nonstimulants like Strattera. Click on the name of each medication to find out more about its adverse effects, dosages and formulations.