ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants boost the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine, two brain chemicals. They include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Tricyclics, a class older of antidepressants are also prescribed by doctors to treat ADHD. However, these drugs can have serious side effects, so doctors generally only recommend them when stimulants don't work or cause unacceptable side effects.
Stimulants
Stimulants are the most commonly used drugs to treat ADHD in both adults and children. They are effective by increasing the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine in your brain. This helps improve concentration, reduces fatigue, and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity for the majority of people who use them. About 70 to 80 percent of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from stimulants. These drugs don't become habit-forming when taken in the doses prescribed to treat ADHD. However they can be misused and cause addiction. medication for adhd with a history of drug or alcohol abuse or a family history of substance or mental health issues may be more at risk of this.
Amphétamines as well as methylphenidates are the most commonly used stimulants in treating ADHD. Generics are less expensive than brand name medications and are preferred by most insurance companies. Certain are also offered as extended-release tablets that are taken daily and can last up to 16 hours. This can result in fewer "ups and downs" of symptoms, which can be especially helpful for school-aged children.
Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes. They typically last for about four hours. They can be taken two or three times a day. Usually, they are the first prescription medication your doctor prescribes. Some of these are available as chewable tablets, liquids or a patch that goes on the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants can last for as long as 16 hours and are consumed each day in the early morning. They can prevent the dips and peaks in effectiveness that occur when stimulants that are short-acting wear off, which can cause extreme hunger and low energy. Many people who are taking long-acting stimulants may supplement them by taking a small amount of immediate-release medication in the afternoon and evening.
There are a myriad of potential adverse effects from using stimulants for ADHD. These include headaches, nausea, nervousness, lack of appetite and sleepiness. Most of these effects are mild to moderate and they'll go away within a few weeks after your body adjusts. If the side effects persist or are severe, consult your physician.
Non-stimulants
There's a class of medicines that can be used to treat ADHD but they're not FDA-approved for this purpose. These medications are known as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera) and varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion (Wellbutrin). These medications are less likely to be used in a way that is harmful than stimulants, however they can still cause insomnia, agitation, or anxiety.
The best way to select the best medication for you or your child is to talk with your doctor who will assist you in weighing the benefits and risks of each option. Your doctor will take into account your medical history, symptoms, as well as any other medical conditions or illnesses that you may be suffering from. They will also look at how each medication affects your child or you and how it interacts with other treatments. You must inform your doctor of any supplements, foods, or drinks that you or your child consume in addition to any prescription or over-the-counter medications you're taking, including antidepressants.