ADHD Medication List
Learn about the medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This ADHD medication list contains details on how the medications perform, the side effects they cause and how long they will last.
Stimulants:
These medications -- including amphetamines and methylphenidate aid in improving focus and reducing the impulsivity and hyperactivity by increasing brain nerve communication. These are controlled substances since they can be misused.
Stimulants
Stimulants raise the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain. Dopamine and norepinephrine are two of the most common stimulants, and they aid in focusing and ward off distractions. These are the most commonly used treatments for ADHD. Around 80percent of people with the condition report that they have been relieved of their symptoms by these drugs. The majority of stimulant medicines are taken in pill form, however some are available in a patch or liquid form. Stimulants are available in immediate-release and long-release forms. Short-acting drugs peak within a few hours and should be taken every day for 2-3 times. Long-acting drugs develop slowly in the body, lasting between 8 and 12 hours.
Many stimulants are available under brand names, such as amphetamines, methylphenidates Dextroamphetamine and Lisdexafetamine, also known as Vyvanse. They are controlled substances that carry the risk of abuse and addiction. Some people may experience adverse effects, such as stomach issues or changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Some sufferers also develop tics, which are repetitive movements or sounds like eye blinking or throat clearing. The stimulants can also cause weight loss and reduce appetite.
Non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD
Wellbutrin, Strattera and other drugs are categorized as "non-stimulants", because they don't perform the same way stimulants do. However, they have an effect on symptoms. They are less likely to trigger adverse effects like agitation and insomnia. They can be more efficient for adults. Some people are not able to take these drugs and they do not help.
Antidepressants
If other ADHD medications aren't working or cause unacceptably adverse effects, doctors may prescribe antidepressants to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as well. These include atypical antidepressants like Wellbutrin and clonidine, as well as older tricyclic antidepressants such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate). They are not advised for children under the age of five because they can produce a powerful sedative effect that could be harmful.
Stimulant withdrawal
Many people who take ADHD medication for a long time suddenly stop taking it, which can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. To prevent this from happening, doctors will often reduce the dosage gradually over the course of a few weeks. If this doesn't work, some patients may require switching to a different medication.
If you or your children are having difficulty finding the right medication, keep trying. Be open to your doctor. Most people need to experiment with different dosages and formulas until they discover a treatment that works for them. Click on the pill to read its complete description. The chart includes dosages, warnings, and important information. The information is organized according to the name of the medication and is based on research published in medical journals. The chart looks best when displayed on an enormous monitor. Download it here. You can also print a copy. The chart provides dosages, formulations and warnings for a variety of ADHD medications. how does medication for adhd work include stimulants such as Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin, and nonstimulants such as Strattera, Intuniv (which will be discontinued in 2023), Qelbree, and Wellbutrin.