ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants treat symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. They are available as 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 a different stimulant and is available in a four-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
The most popular treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They are effective in 70 to 80% of adults and children. These drugs increase the levels of hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps you focus and focus on your impulses. Most stimulants take effect within 30 minutes. They can decrease the amount of interruptions and fidgeting. They can also aid in focusing, completing tasks, and improve your relationships. They won't stop you from experiencing symptoms or adverse effects.
Short- and long-acting stimulant medications are available. Short-acting drugs peak after a few hours and require 2-3 daily doses, while long-acting drugs can be taken just once per day. Some sufferers have the sensation of a "crash" or a sudden drop of energy, mood, or hunger as the drug wears off. If this happens your doctor may prescribe an intermediate stimulant or switch you to a longer-acting drug.
dealing with adhd without medication 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. They are available in prescription and over-the-counter forms, but when injected or smoked, they enter the brain quickly and produce an increase in energy and euphoria. They've been used by athletes, students truck drivers, soldiers, and other athletes. In 2017, around two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines for recreational purposes.
Methylphenidate is like amphetamines because it blocks the reuptake norepinephrine and dopamine from the brain. It is available as oral tablets that are immediate-release, controlled-release and extended-release. Visit Homepage can be taken once or twice daily. Focalin is also the brand name under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine, an FDA-approved medicine for ADHD that boosts the amount of noradrenaline in your brain. It is available as tablets or capsules that can be taken either once or twice a day. Atomoxetine is approved for use by adults and adolescents over the age of 5.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people find that stimulants aren't effective or cause undesirable side effects and their doctor may look at other options for ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) may aid in improving your ability to concentrate, stay focused and manage your emotions. They include Strattera, Tenex (which will be discontinued in 2023), Kapvay, and Intuniv.
It can take time to find the right ADHD medication for you or your child. Be patient and work with your doctor to find a dosage, medication and schedule that work best for you. Use this chart to help remember the names of some of the most popular ADHD medications including stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and non-stimulants like Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv and Qelbree. Click on each medicine for a detailed breakdown of its adverse effects dosages, formulations, dosages and special factors to consider.