ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants treat symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, liquids, and patches.
Stimulants include dextroamphetamine, dextro and Adderall. Lisdexamfetamine is another and comes in a four-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
The most commonly used treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They work well in 70 to 80% adults and children. These drugs boost hormones, such as dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, allowing you to think clearly, pay greater attention and control impulses. Most stimulants have a 30-minute effect. They can help reduce interruptions and fidgeting, and help you focus, finish tasks, and improve your relationships. However, they won't remove all symptoms or prevent you from suffering from side effects.
Long- and short-acting stimulant medications are readily available. Short-acting stimulants peak after several hours, and require a minimum of daily doses. Long-acting stimulants should be taken daily. Home experience an "crash" when the effects of the drug wear off, which can cause an abrupt loss of energy and mood or intense hunger. If you've experienced this the doctor could prescribe an intermediate stimulant to fill the gap between doses or change 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. They are available in both prescription and over-the-counter forms however, when they are taken or smoked, they can reach the brain quickly, causing an energy boost and an euphoria. They've been misused by athletes, students truck drivers, soldiers, and other athletes. In 2017, two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines for recreational purposes.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines by blocking the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. It comes in immediate-release, extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets taken at least twice a day. It's also available under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, boosts the noradrenaline levels of your brain. It's available as tablets or capsules that is taken twice or once daily. Atomoxetine is approved for use by adults and adolescents who are over 5 years old.
Other Medications for ADHD
Some people have found that stimulants aren't effective or cause adverse side effects, so their doctor may consider other medications for ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a mix of stimulants and nonstimulants, may improve your ability to stay focused on your task and control emotions. They include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
Finding the best ADHD medication may take a while whether it's for you or your child. Be patient and work with your doctor to determine the dosage, schedule and medication that will work for you. This chart will help you remember some of the names of well-known ADHD medication. These include stimulants such as Adderall and Vyvanse and non-stimulants such as Strattera. Click on the name of each medication to learn more about its side effects, dosages, and formulations.