ADHD Medication List<br /><br /><br /><br />Learn about medications to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This ADHD medication list provides information on how the drugs perform, their side effects and how long they will last.<br /><br />Stimulants:<br /><br />These medications, which include methylphenidate (and amphetamines) aid in improving concentration and decrease hyperactivity by increasing the brain's ability to communicate. Stimulants are controlled substances because they can be abused.<br /><br />Stimulants<br /><br />The effects of stimulants increase the amount of certain chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain. These include dopamine and norepinephrine which assist people to pay attention and not be distracted. These are the most popular treatment for ADHD. About 88% of those suffering from the condition report that they are relieved from their symptoms due to these drugs. Certain stimulant medications are available in the form of patches or liquids, while others are taken in pill form. Stimulants are available as extended-release and immediate-release formulations. Short-acting drugs peak within several hours and must be taken three times per day. Long-acting drugs are slowly absorbed by the body and last for 8-12 hours.<br /><br />Numerous stimulants are available under brand names, including methylphenidates, amphetamines, Dextroamphetamine and Lisdexafetamine, also known as Vyvanse. <a href="https://www.iampsychiatry.com/adult-adhd-medication">non prescription adhd medication I Am Psychiatry</a> are controlled substances that have the possibility of addiction and abuse. Certain people may experience side effects such as stomach problems, changes in heart rate or blood pressure. Some sufferers also develop tics, which are repeated sounds or movements such as eye blinking or clearing the throat. The stimulants can also cause weight loss and reduce appetite.<br /><br />Non-stimulant medications to treat ADHD<br /><br />Wellbutrin, Strattera and other drugs are categorized as "non-stimulants", because they don't perform in the same way that stimulants do. However, they still can affect symptoms. These drugs have a lower risk of causing side effects, like insomnia or agitation and are generally more effective for some adults than stimulants. Some people are unable to take these drugs and they don't help.<br /><br />Antidepressants<br /><br />Doctors may prescribe antidepressants for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder if other ADHD medication fail or if they cause too many adverse effects. They include atypical antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin and clonidine, as well as older tricyclic antidepressants like phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate). They aren't advised for children under the age of five because they can have a powerful sedative effect, which can be risky.<br /><br />Stimulant withdrawal<br /><br />Many people who have been taking ADHD medication for a long time, then suddenly stop taking it, which can result in severe withdrawal symptoms. To prevent this from happening doctors typically reduce the dosage over a number of weeks. If this doesn't work, patients may require switching to a different medication.<br /><br />If you or your children are having difficulty finding a medication that works try it again. Also, be open with your doctor. Most people will have to try different dosages and formulas until they find a treatment that works for them. Click on the pill to read the full description. The chart includes dosages, warnings, and important facts. The information is organized by the name of the medication and is based on research published in medical journals. The chart is best displayed on a large monitor. You can download it here. A printable version is available. The chart contains dosages, formulations, special warnings and other important facts for a variety of ADHD medications that include stimulants like Adderall, Vyvanse and Ritalin and nonstimulants such as Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Intuniv, Qelbree and Wellbutrin.<br /><br />