ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants relieve symptoms of ADHD by increasing levels of the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, liquids and patches.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and dextroamphetamine, and dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are examples of stimulants. Lisdexamfetamine is available as a four-hour capsule or a tablet.
Stimulants
Stimulants for ADHD are the most commonly prescribed medications and are effective in 70 to 80% of adults and children. These medications increase the levels of hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain, which helps you focus your mind and pay attention, as well as control your impulses. Most stimulants have a 30-minute effect. They can decrease fidgeting and interrupting and assist you in focusing, finishing tasks and improve your relationships. However, they can't completely eliminate all your symptoms or prevent you from experiencing side effects.
Long- and short-acting stimulant medications are available. Short-acting stimulants are most effective after a few hours and require between 2 and 3 daily doses. Long-acting stimulants should be taken every day. Some sufferers are prone to experiencing a "crash" when the drug wears off leading to a sudden loss of mood and energy, or an intense hunger. If you have this experience, your doctor may prescribe an intermediate stimulant to fill the gap between doses, or to switch you to a longer-acting 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 over-the-counter versions are available, however when they are injected or smoked they quickly reach the brain and produce a rush. They've been used by athletes, students truck drivers, soldiers and students. In 2017, around two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines non-medically.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines in that it blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain. adhd medications comes in immediate-release extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets that are taken at least twice a day. It's also sold under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, increases the noradrenaline levels of your brain. It is available as a capsule or tablet that can be taken once or twice daily. Atomoxetine is approved for use in adults and adolescents older than 5 years old.
Other Medications for ADHD
Some people find stimulants don't work or cause unpleasant adverse side effects. Their doctor may then try other drugs to treat ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a mix of stimulants and nonstimulants may improve your ability to focus on your work and control emotions. They include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
Finding the right ADHD medication may take some time, whether it is for you or your child. Be patient and work with your doctor to determine the medication, dosage and schedule that is most suitable for you. This chart will help you remember some of the names of popular ADHD medications. These include stimulants such as Adderall and Vyvanse, and nonstimulants like Strattera. Click on the name of each drug to learn more about its effects, dosages and formulations.