ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine two brain chemicals. They include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Doctors can also prescribe the older class of antidepressants known as tricyclics to treat ADHD. However, these drugs can have serious side effects, so doctors typically only recommend them if stimulants don't perform or cause uncontrollable side effects.
Stimulants
The most common medication used to treat ADHD in children and adults is stimulants. These medications increase the amount of dopamine found in your brain. The majority of people who use these medications find that they boost their concentration, decrease fatigue, and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. Around 70% to 80 percent of those with ADHD are able to benefit from stimulants. These medications don't cause addiction when taken in the doses prescribed for treating ADHD. However adhd medication names are able to be abused and cause addiction. Patients with an history of drug or alcohol abuse or a family history of substance or mental health problems may be at higher risk for this.
The most common stimulants used to treat ADHD are amphetamines and methylphenidates. Generics are cheaper than brand-name drugs and are favored by the majority of insurance companies. Some are also offered as extended-release tablets that you take once a day 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 begin to work within 30 to 45 minutes. They generally last for four hours. You may take them two or three times a day. They are typically the first type of medication that your doctor prescribes. Certain medications are available as tablets, chewable or liquid form, or patches that are applied to the skin.
Intermediate and long-acting stimulants are typically taken every day in the morning and can last up to 16 hours. They can stop the high levels of effectiveness that can occur when short-acting stimulation wears off and can cause extreme hunger and low levels of energy. Many people who take long-acting stimulants add a small amount of immediate-release medication to help them get through the late evening and afternoon.
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 side effects are moderate to mild and go away after a few weeks as your body adjusts. Consult your physician when the side effects become severe or don't go away after a few weeks.
Non-stimulants
These medications are called non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera) varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine and bupropion. The majority of these medications carry less risk of misuse than stimulants, yet they may still cause anxiety, insomnia, or agitation.
Consult your doctor to help you evaluate the benefits and risks of each treatment alternative. Your doctor will take into consideration your medical history, the severity of your symptoms, as well as any other medical conditions or illnesses you may have. They will also take into consideration the effects each medication has on your child or you and how it interacts with other treatments. You'll need to inform your doctor about any foods, beverages or supplements you or your child consumes and whether you're taking any other medications, whether prescription or over the counter, including antidepressants.