ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine, which help treat ADHD symptoms. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, liquid and patches.
Stimulants include dextroamphetamine and dextro and Adderall. Lisdexamfetamine is a different stimulant and is available in a four-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
The most commonly used treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They are effective in 70 to 80% of adults and children. These medications increase the levels of hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain to help you focus and pay attention, as well as control your impulses. The majority of stimulants work within 30 minutes. They can help reduce interruptions and fidgeting, and aid in focusing, completing tasks 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 medications are available. Short-acting drugs peak after several hours and require 2-3 daily doses, whereas long-acting drugs are taken only once a day. Some people are prone to experiencing the sensation of a "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 bridge the gap between doses, or to switch you to a more powerful 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. adhd uk medication are available in prescription and over-the counter forms however, when they are inhaled or smoked, they reach the brain quickly and produce a rush of energy and euphoria. They have been abused by students, athletes truck drivers, soldiers, and other athletes. In 2017, approximately two percent of Canadian student reported using amphetamines non-medically.
Methylphenidate is like amphetamines because it blocks the reuptake norepinephrine, and dopamine from the brain. It is available as oral tablets with immediate-release, controlled-release and extended-release. These are taken once or twice every day. It's also available under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine which is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, increases the noradrenaline levels of your brain. It's available in tablets or capsules that can be taken once or twice daily. Atomoxetine is approved for use in adults and adolescents over the age of 5.
Other Medications for ADHD
Some people have found that stimulants do not work or cause adverse side effects and their doctor may consider other medications for ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a mixture of stimulants and nonstimulants could help you stay focused on your task and manage your emotions. These include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
It can take a while to determine the best ADHD medication for your child or yourself. Be patient and work with your physician to determine the medication, dosage and schedule that will work for you. This chart will help you remember some of the names of popular ADHD medications. These include stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse, and nonstimulants like Strattera. Click on any medicine to get an in-depth breakdown of its adverse effects, dosages, formulations and additional considerations.