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 as well as dextro-amphe (Adderall) are examples of stimulants. Lisdexamfetamine is a different one and comes in a 4-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
The most popular treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They work well for 70 to 80% adults and children. These drugs boost hormones, such as dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which help you think clearly, pay more attention and manage impulses. Most stimulants take effect within 30 minutes. They can decrease fidgeting and interrupting and aid in focusing, completing tasks, and improve your relationships. However, they can't completely cure all your symptoms or stop you from experiencing adverse effects.
Long- and short-acting stimulant medications are readily available. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours, and require 2-3 daily doses. Long-acting stimulants are consumed once a day. Some sufferers experience the sensation of a "crash", the sudden loss of energy, mood, or hunger as the drug wears away. If you have this experience your doctor might prescribe an intermediate stimulant to bridge the gap between doses or switch you to a more powerful 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 non-prescription versions are available, however when they are smoked or injected they quickly reach the brain and cause an increase in. Truckers, athletes, students and soldiers have taken advantage of them. In 2017, around two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines for non-medical reasons.
Info is similar to amphetamines in the sense that it blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine from the brain. It is available in oral tablets that are immediate-release, controlled release or extended-release. It can be taken either once or twice every day. Focalin is also the brand name under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, increases noradrenaline levels of your brain. It's available as tablets or capsules that can be consumed once or twice a day. Atomoxetine is available to adults and adolescents older than 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people discover that stimulants are not effective or cause undesirable side effects. The doctor may try other medications to treat ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a combination of stimulants and nonstimulants, could help you stay focused on your task and control emotions. These include Strattera, Tenex (which will be removed in 2023), Kapvay, and Intuniv.
It can take a while to determine the best ADHD medication for you or your child. Be patient and work with your physician to determine the medication, dosage and schedule that is most suitable for you. Use this chart to help you remember the names of of the most sought-after ADHD medications, including stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and non-stimulants like Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv and Qelbree. Click on the name of each drug to find out more about its adverse effects, dosages, and formulations.