ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants increase the levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine that treat ADHD symptoms. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, liquids and patches.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and dextroamphetamine and dextro-amphetamine (Adderall) are examples of stimulants. Lisdexamfetamine is available as a 4-hour capsule or tablet.
Stimulants
Stimulants for ADHD are the most frequently used medications and work well in about 70 to 80 percent of children and adults. These drugs boost the levels of hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps you think clearly and focus on your impulses. The majority of stimulants have a 30-minute effect. They can help reduce interruptions and fidgeting, and help you focus, finish tasks and improve your relationships. They will not prevent you from suffering symptoms or adverse effects.
Stimulant drugs are available in both short- and long-acting dosages. Short-acting medications peak after several hours and require three daily doses, whereas long-acting drugs are taken only every day. Some people are prone to experiencing a "crash", a sudden drop of energy, mood, or hunger as the drug wears away. If adhd medications have this experience, your doctor may prescribe an intermediate stimulant to bridge the gap between doses or change you to a 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 injected or smoked they quickly enter the brain and cause an adrenaline rush. Students, athletes, truckers and soldiers have used these substances. In 2017, around two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines for non-medical reasons.
Methylphenidate is like amphetamines because it blocks the reuptake norepinephrine and dopamine out of the brain. It comes in immediate-release extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets. They are taken once or twice per day. It's also available under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine, an FDA-approved ADHD medication, increases noradrenaline levels in your brain. It's available as tablets or capsules that can be taken either once or twice daily. Atomoxetine is approved for use by adults and adolescents older than 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people find stimulants don't work or have unpleasant adverse side effects. The doctor may consider other medications to treat ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a combination of stimulants and nonstimulants could help you focus on your work and control emotions. These include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
It can take time to find the perfect ADHD medication for your child or you. Be patient and work with your doctor to find a 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 the name of each medication to find out more about its side effects, dosages, and formulations.