ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine, which help treat ADHD symptoms. They are available as immediate-release (short acting) and extended release tablets, liquids and patches.
Stimulants include dextroamphetamine, dextro, and Adderall. Lisdexamfetamine is a different one and comes in a 4-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
The most commonly used treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They work well for 70 to 80% adults and children. These medications increase hormones, such as dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which help you think clearly, pay attention to and control impulses. Most stimulants have a 30-minute effect. They can reduce the amount of interruptions and fidgeting. They can also assist you in focusing, finishing tasks and improve your relationships. But they will not remove all symptoms or prevent you from suffering from side effects.
Stimulant medicines are available in short- and long-acting dosages. Short-acting stimulants are most effective after a few hours, and require a minimum of daily dosages. Long-acting stimulants are taken once a day. Some sufferers have an "crash" or an abrupt drop in energy, mood, or hunger as the drug wears away. If this occurs your doctor may prescribe an intermediate stimulant or change you to 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. Both prescription and over-the-counter versions are available, but when they are smoked or injected, they quickly enter the brain and produce a rush. adhd anxiety medication have been abused by athletes, students truck drivers, soldiers, and other athletes. In 2017, two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines to get high.
Methylphenidate is like amphetamines because it blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine, and dopamine from the brain. It is available as oral tablets with immediate-release, controlled-release or extended-release. These are taken once or twice every day. Focalin is also the brand name under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine which is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, boosts the noradrenaline levels of your brain. It is available as a capsule or tablet that can be taken either once or twice daily. Atomoxetine is approved for use by adults and adolescents who are over 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Certain people find that stimulants do not work or cause undesirable adverse side effects. Their doctor might then consider other treatments for ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) could aid in improving your ability to concentrate, stay focused and control your emotions. These include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
It may take some time to determine the best ADHD medication for your child or yourself. Work with your doctor and be patient to find the right medication, dosage, and schedule 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 non-stimulants such as Strattera. Click on the name of each medication to learn more about its side effects, dosages, and formulations.