ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two brain chemicals. They include the methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Doctors may also prescribe older types of antidepressants, tricyclics, to treat ADHD. However, these medications can cause severe side effects, and doctors typically only recommend them when stimulants don't work or cause unacceptable adverse effects.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used drugs to treat ADHD in both adults and children. These drugs help by increasing the amount of dopamine and norepinephrine that are present in your brain. This helps improve concentration, reduces fatigue and reduces impulsivity and hyperactivity in most people who take these drugs. About 70-80 percent of people suffering from ADHD are able to benefit from stimulants. These medications don't cause addiction when taken in the doses prescribed to treat ADHD. However they can be misused and lead to addiction. People with a history of drug or alcohol abuse or a family history of substance or mental health problems may be at higher risk for this.
The most popular stimulants used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines. The majority of these medications are available as generics, that are cheaper than brand-name medicines and are favored by a variety of insurance companies. Certain are also available as extended-release tablets which are taken daily and last for up to 16 hours. This can result in fewer "ups-and-downs" of symptoms. medication for autism and adhd is especially beneficial for children.
Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants start working within 30 to 45 minutes. They generally last for around four hours. You can take them two or three times a day. They are usually the first type of medication your doctor prescribes. Some of them are available as chewable tablets, liquids or patches that are placed on the skin.
Long-acting and intermediate stimulants can last up 16 hours, and are taken once daily in the morning. They can help prevent the dips and peaks in effectiveness that happen when short-acting stimulants lose their effectiveness and cause extreme hunger and fatigue. Many people who take long-acting stimulants add a small amount of medication that is immediate-release to get through late evening and afternoon.
There are many possible side effects of taking stimulants to treat ADHD. These include nausea, headaches nervousness, lack of appetite, and sleepiness. Most of these side effects are mild to moderate and go away after some time as your body adjusts. If the side effects persist or are severe, consult your doctor.
Non-stimulants
These medications are called non-stimulant ADHD medicines and include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These are referred to as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine, varenicline and bupropion. These medications are less likely to be used in a way that is harmful than stimulants, however they can still cause insomnia, agitation or anxiety.
Consult your physician to help you assess the benefits and risks of each medication option. Your doctor will consider your medical history and the severity of your symptoms, as well as any other illnesses or conditions you suffer from. They will also take into consideration how each medication affects your child or you, and how it works with other treatments. You must inform your doctor about any supplements, foods or drinks that you or your child consume in addition to any prescription or over-the counter medication you're taking, such as antidepressants.