Why ADHD Medication List Is Fast Becoming The Trendiest Thing Of 2024

adhd stimulant medication

Learn about the medications that treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This ADHD medication list provides details about how the drugs work, their side effects and how long they will last.

Stimulants:

These medications, including methylphenidate (and amphetamines) can improve concentration and decrease hyperactivity by enhancing communication between brain neurons. Because they have the potential for misuse, stimulants are controlled substances.

Stimulants

Stimulants raise the levels of certain neurotransmitters (chemicals) in the brain. These include dopamine and norepinephrine, which help people pay attention and ignore distractions. These are the most commonly used treatments for ADHD. Around 80percent of people with the disorder report that they have been relieved of their symptoms by these drugs. The majority of stimulant medications are taken as pills, however some are available in a patch or liquid form. Stimulants are available in immediate-release and long-release forms. Short-acting medications reach their peak within a few hours and must be taken every day for 2-3 times. Long-acting medications build slowly in the body, lasting between 8 and 12 hours.

There are many brand-name stimulants available, including the methylphenidates (Ritalin, Concerta), amphetamines (Adderall, Dextroamphetamine) and lisdexafetamine (Vyvanse). They are controlled substances that carry the risk of abuse and addiction. Certain people may experience side effects like stomach problems or changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Certain people develop tics which is a continuous sound or movement, such as blinking the eyes or clearing the throat. The stimulants can also decrease appetite and may cause people to lose weight.

Non-stimulant medication for ADHD

Medications like Wellbutrin and Strattera are regarded as "non-stimulants" because they do not work in the same way as stimulants, but they do have some impact on symptoms. These drugs are less likely to trigger adverse effects like agitation and insomnia. They can be more efficient for adults. Some people are unable take these drugs and they do not help.

Antidepressants

If other ADHD medications aren't working or cause unacceptably adverse effects, doctors may prescribe antidepressants for treating attention deficit hyperactivity disorder as well. These include atypical and tricyclic antidepressants, like Wellbutrin, clonidine and phenelzine. They are not recommended for young children because they can produce a powerful sedative effect, which can be harmful.

Stimulant withdrawal

Many people who have taken ADHD medication for a long time, then suddenly stop taking it, which can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. To prevent this from happening doctors typically reduce the dosage over a period of time. If this doesn't work some patients, they may have to switch to a different kind of medication.

If you or your children are having difficulty finding the right medication try again. Be open with your doctor. Most people have to experiment with various dosages and formulations before they find a solution that works for them. Click on the pill to read its complete description. The chart contains dosages, warnings specific to the medication and other important information. The information is organized according the medication's name and is based on research published in medical journals. The chart is best displayed on a large screen. Download it here. A printable version is available. The chart includes dosages, formulations, and warnings for a variety of ADHD medications. These include stimulants such as Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ritalin, and nonstimulants such as Strattera, Intuniv (which will be removed in 2023), Qelbree, and Wellbutrin.