ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants relieve symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. They are available in immediate-release (short-acting) and extended-release tablets, liquid and patches.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and dextroamphetamine, and dextroamphetamine (Adderall) are examples of stimulants. Lisdexamfetamine comes as a four-hour capsule or a tablet.
Stimulants
The most commonly used treatment for ADHD is stimulants. They work well for 70 to 80% adults and children. These medications increase the levels of hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine within the brain to help you focus and focus on your impulses. Most stimulants have a 30 minute effect. They can help you reduce the amount of time you spend fiddling around, interrupting and finish tasks and improve your relationships. However, they can't completely cure all your symptoms or stop you from experiencing side effects.
Short- and long-acting stimulant medications are readily available. Short-acting drugs peak after a few hours and require a minimum of three daily doses, whereas long-acting drugs can be taken just once per day. Some sufferers experience a "crash" that is an abrupt drop in energy, mood or hunger as the drug wears off. If this happens the doctor will prescribe an intermediate stimulant or change you to a stronger 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. They are available in prescription and over-the-counter versions, but when taken or smoked, they reach the brain quickly to produce an increase in energy and euphoria. They've been used by students, athletes, truck drivers and soldiers. In 2017, about two percent of Canadian students reported abusing amphetamines to get high.
Methylphenidate is like amphetamines because it blocks the reuptake norepinephrine, and dopamine from the brain. It comes in immediate-release, extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets. They are taken once or twice per day. It's also available under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine which is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, boosts the noradrenaline levels of your brain. It's available in the form of a tablet or capsule that is taken twice or once daily. Atomoxetine is suitable for adults and adolescents over 5 years old.
Other Medications for ADHD
Some people find that stimulants do not work or cause unpleasant side effects and their doctor may try other medications for ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a combination of stimulants and nonstimulants, could help you stay focused on your task and control emotions. They include Strattera, Tenex (which will be discontinued in 2023), Kapvay, and Intuniv.
It can take a while to determine the best ADHD medication for you or your child. adhd medication and pregnancy with your doctor and be patient to find the right dosage, medication, and schedule for you. This chart will help you remember a few of the names of well-known ADHD medications. These include stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse, and nonstimulants like Strattera. Click on the name of each medication to find out more about its adverse effects, dosages and formulations.