ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants increase the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine which are used to help treat ADHD symptoms. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, liquids, and patches.
Stimulants include dextroamphetamine, dextroamphetamine-dextroamphetamine, and Adderall. Lisdexamfetamine comes as a four-hour capsule or tablet.
Stimulants
Stimulants for ADHD are the most frequently used medications and work well in about 70 to 80 percent of adults and children. These drugs increase the levels of hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain to help you focus your mind and focus on your impulses. The majority of stimulants have a 30-minute effect. They can reduce the amount of time you spend fiddling around, interrupting and finish work and also improve your relationships. They won't stop you from experiencing symptoms or side effects.
Long- and short-acting stimulant medications are available. Short-acting drugs peak after a few hours and require 2-3 daily doses, whereas long-acting drugs are taken only once per day. adhd medication adults uk experience the sensation of a "crash" when the effects of the drug wear off, which can cause an abrupt decrease in mood and energy, or an intense hunger. If this occurs, your doctor will prescribe an intermediate stimulant or change you to a longer-acting drug.
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, but when inhaled or smoked, they can reach the brain quickly, causing an increase in energy and euphoria. They have been abused by athletes, students truck drivers, soldiers, and other athletes. In 2017, around two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines in non-medical ways.
Methylphenidate is like amphetamines because it blocks the reuptake norepinephrine and dopamine out of the brain. It comes in immediate-release extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets. They are taken at least twice a day. It's also available under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine is a FDA-approved drug for ADHD that boosts the amount of noradrenaline found in your brain. It is available as tablets or capsules that can be consumed once or twice daily. Atomoxetine is approved for use by adults and adolescents older than 5 years old.
Other Medications for ADHD
Certain people find that stimulants don't work or cause unpleasant adverse side effects. The doctor may consider other treatments for ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) could help improve your ability to concentrate, stay on task and control your emotions. They include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
Finding the best ADHD medication can take some time regardless of whether it's for you or your child. Be patient and work with your doctor to find a medication, dosage and schedule that will work for you. This chart will help you remember a few of the names of well-known ADHD medication. These include stimulants such as Adderall and Vyvanse, and nonstimulants like Strattera. Click on the name of each drug to find out more about its effects, dosages, and formulations.