ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants increase levels of brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine, which 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 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 are effective in 70 to 80% of adults and children. These drugs boost hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine levels inside the brain, allowing you think more clearly, pay more attention and control impulses. The majority of stimulants work within 30 minutes. They can reduce fidgeting, interrupting, and finish work and also improve your relationships. They will not prevent you from experiencing symptoms or adverse 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 a day. Some sufferers are prone to experiencing an "crash" when the effects of the drug wear off, which can cause a sudden decrease in mood and energy or a sudden surge of hunger. If this occurs, your doctor will prescribe an intermediate stimulant or switch 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. Both prescription and over-the counter versions are available, but 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, about two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines non-medically.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines, blocking the reuptake and release of norepinephrine, as well as dopamine in the brain. It is available as oral tablets with immediate-release, controlled-release or extended-release. It can be taken once or twice every day. Focalin is also the brand name under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine is a FDA-approved drug for ADHD that boosts the amount of noradrenaline in your brain. It is available as tablets or capsules that is taken twice or once daily. Atomoxetine can be used by adults and adolescents over 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Certain people find that stimulants are not effective or cause undesirable adverse effects. Their doctor may then try other treatments for ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) may aid in improving your ability focus, stay on task and manage your emotions. They include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
It may take some time to find the perfect ADHD medication for you or your child. Be patient and work with your physician to determine the dosage, medication and schedule that is most suitable for you. This chart will help you remember a few of the names used by popular ADHD medication. These include stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and nonstimulants like Strattera. adhd treatment medication on each medicine for a detailed breakdown of its adverse effects, dosages, formulations and special considerations.