Ten Things Everyone Misunderstands About The Word "ADHD Medication List." ADHD Medication List - Stimulants

The stimulants are used to boost the levels of two brain chemicals, norepinephrine and dopamine. They include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).

Doctors also sometimes prescribe older types of antidepressants, tricyclics, to treat ADHD. But these medications have severe side effects, and doctors usually only recommend them when stimulants do not perform or cause uncontrollable adverse effects.


Stimulants

Stimulants are among the most commonly prescribed medications for treating ADHD in adults and children. These medications increase the amount of dopamine found in your brain. Most people who take these medications find that they improve their concentration, reduce fatigue, and decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity. About 70-80% people with ADHD can benefit from stimulants. These medications don't cause addiction when taken in the dosages prescribed to treat ADHD. However they are able to be abused and lead to addiction. If you have a history of addiction to alcohol or drugs, or those from a family that has a history of mental health or substance abuse issues are at greater risk.

The most common stimulants used to treat ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines. Generics are less expensive than brand-name medications and are preferred by a majority of insurance companies. Some of these medicines are available as extended-release tablets that you can take one time a week and last up to 16 hrs. non stimulant adhd medication may result in fewer "ups and downs" of symptoms, which can be particularly beneficial for children who are in school.

Immediate-release (short-acting) stimulants begin working within 30 to 45 minutes and generally last for four hours. They can be taken twice or three times daily. They are typically the first type of medication your doctor prescribes. Some of these medicines are available in liquid, chewable tablets or patches that can be applied to the skin.

Intermediate and long-acting stimulants can last for as long as 16 hours and are taken every day in the morning. They can stop the peaks in effectiveness that can occur after the short-acting stimulation has slowed down which can result in extreme hunger and a lack of energy. Many people who take long-acting stimulants also supplement them with a small amount of medication that is immediate-release to get through late afternoon and evening.

There are a number of possible side effects from using stimulants to treat ADHD such as headaches, stomachaches, nervousness loss of appetite, and sleepiness. Most of these effects are mild to moderate, and they'll go away within a few weeks after your body is adjusted. If the side effects persist or are severe, you should consult your physician.

Non-stimulants

There's a class of medicines that can be used to treat ADHD but they're not FDA-approved for this purpose. These medications are known as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine (Strattera) as well as varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion (Wellbutrin). These medications are less likely to be used in a way that is harmful than stimulants, however they may still cause agitation, insomnia, or anxiety.

Talk to your doctor about how you assess the risks and benefits of each option. Your doctor will consider your medical history, your symptoms and any other conditions or illnesses that you may be suffering from. They'll also consider how each medication affects you or your child, and how it interacts with other treatments. You must inform your doctor of any supplements, foods, or beverages you or your child take and any prescription or over-the counter medications you're taking, including antidepressants.