ADHD Medication List
Learn about the medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This ADHD medication list contains information on how the medications perform, the side effects they cause and how long it lasts.
Stimulants:
These drugs, such as methylphenidate (and amphetamines), help improve focus and reduce hyperactivity by enhancing the communication between brain neurons. These are controlled substances since they can be abused.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain. These include dopamine and norepinephrine which assist people to pay attention and not be distracted. These drugs are the most common treatments for ADHD. About 80% of those with the condition say that they are relieved from their symptoms with these medications. Certain stimulant medications are available in patches or liquids and others are ingested in pill form. Stimulants come in both immediate-release and long-release forms. Short-acting medications peak within a few hours and are required to be taken 2-3 times a day. Long-acting drugs accumulate slowly in the body and last for between 8 and 12 hours.
A variety of stimulants are sold under brand names, such as amphetamines and methylphenidates. Dextroamphetamine and lisdexafetamine also known as Vyvanse. These are controlled substances that carry the danger of addiction and abuse. People may experience side effects, like stomach issues or changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Certain sufferers also develop tics which are repeated sounds or movements like eye blinking or clearing the throat. They also reduce appetites and may cause people to lose weight.
Non-stimulant medications for ADHD
Wellbutrin, Strattera and other drugs are categorized as "non-stimulants", because they don't work the same way stimulants do. However, they still have an effect on symptoms. They have a lower risk of causing side effects, such as agitation or insomnia and generally are more effective for some adults than stimulants. However, some people may have trouble tolerating these medicines and are not affected by these medications.
Antidepressants
Doctors may prescribe antidepressants for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) if other ADHD medications don't work or cause excessive side effects. These include atypical antidepressants like Wellbutrin and Clonidine, and older tricyclic antidepressants like phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate). They are not advised for children under the age of five because they can cause a strong sedative effect, which can be dangerous.
Stimulant withdrawal
Many people who have been taking ADHD drugs for a while stop taking the medication abruptly, which can cause serious withdrawal symptoms. To avoid this doctors often cut the dosage gradually over a couple of weeks. If this doesn't work for you, patients are required to switch to a different type of medication.
If you or your child is trying to find a medication that helps, keep trying and keep in contact with your doctor. The majority of people need to play with different dosages and formulas before finding a solution that is effective for them. To learn most effective adhd medication for adults about drugs listed on this ADHD medication list, click on a pill to read its full description and other important details. The chart includes dosages, special warnings and other important facts. most effective adhd medication for adults is arranged according to the name of the medication and is based on research published in medical journal. The chart is best viewed on large screens. Download it here. You can also print a copy. The chart contains dosages, formulations, special warnings and other important facts for a variety of ADHD medications that include stimulants like Adderall, Vyvanse and Ritalin and nonstimulants such as Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Intuniv, Qelbree and Wellbutrin.