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, liquids, and patches.
Stimulants include dextroamphetamine, dextroamphetamine-dextroamphetamine, and Adderall. Lisdexamfetamine is a different one and comes in a 4-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
Stimulants for ADHD are the most commonly prescribed medications and work well in about 70 to 80 percent of adults and children. These drugs boost hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps you to think clearly, pay attention to and control impulses. The majority of stimulants have a 30-minute effect. They can reduce the amount of time you spend fiddling around, interrupting and finish tasks and also improve your relationships. click through the up coming document won't stop you from suffering symptoms or side effects.
Stimulant medications come in both long and short-acting dosages. Short-acting drugs peak after a few hours and require three daily doses, while long-acting drugs are taken only once a day. Some people have the sensation of a "crash" or the sudden loss of energy, mood or hunger as the drug wears away. If you experience this your doctor might prescribe an intermediate stimulant to fill the gap between doses, or to switch 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. Both prescription and over-the counter versions are available, but when they are injected or smoked they rapidly reach the brain and produce an adrenaline rush. They have been abused by students, athletes truck drivers, soldiers and students. In 2017, around two percent of Canadian students reported abusing amphetamines for non-medical purposes.
Methylphenidate is like amphetamines because it blocks the reuptake norepinephrine and dopamine out of the brain. It is available as oral tablets that are immediate-release, controlled release or extended-release. It can be taken once or twice daily. Focalin is also the brand under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine, an FDA-approved medicine for ADHD that boosts the amount of noradrenaline that is present in your brain. It's available in tablets or capsules that can be taken either once or twice a day. Atomoxetine is suitable for adults and adolescents older than 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people find stimulants don't work or cause unpleasant side effects. Their doctor might then try other medications to treat ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a mixture of stimulants and nonstimulants, may improve your ability to focus on your work and manage your emotions. They include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
It can take time to find the right ADHD medication for your child or you. Work with your doctor and be patient to find the appropriate dosage, medication, and schedule for you. Use this chart to help you remember the names of some of the most sought-after ADHD medications including stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and nonstimulants like Strattera, Tenex, Intuniv and Qelbree. Click on each medicine for an in-depth breakdown of its adverse effects dosages, formulations, dosages and other special considerations.