ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants relieve symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. They are available in immediate-release (short acting) and extended release tablets, liquids, and patches.
does adhd medication work include dextroamphetamine, dextro, and Adderall. Lisdexamfetamine is a different stimulant and comes in a four-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
Stimulants for ADHD are the most commonly prescribed medications and are effective in 70 to 80% of children and adults. These medications increase the levels of hormones like dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain to help you focus and focus on your impulses. Most stimulants have a 30 minute effect. They can help you reduce fidgeting, interrupting, and finish tasks and also improve your relationships. However, they can't completely remove all symptoms or prevent you from suffering from side effects.
Long- and short-acting stimulant drugs are available. Short-acting medications peak after several hours and require a minimum of three daily doses, whereas long-acting medications are only taken once a day. Some sufferers experience a "crash" or the sudden loss of energy, mood, or hunger as the drug wears away. If you experience this the doctor could prescribe an intermediate stimulant to bridge the gap between doses, or to switch you to a more powerful 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 both prescription and over-the-counter forms and, when injected or smoked, they enter the brain quickly, causing an increase in energy and feelings of euphoria. Students, athletes, truckers and soldiers have taken advantage of these substances. In 2017, around two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines for non-medical reasons.
Methylphenidate is like amphetamines because it blocks the reuptake of 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 sold under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine, an FDA-approved medicine for ADHD that increases the amount of noradrenaline that is present in your brain. It's available in a capsule or tablet that can be taken either once or twice a day. Atomoxetine is approved for use by adults and adolescents who are over 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people find that stimulants aren't effective or cause undesirable side effects, so their doctor may consider other medications for ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a mixture of stimulants and nonstimulants may improve your ability to remain focused on your task and manage your emotions. These include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
It can take time to find the perfect ADHD medication for your child or yourself. Be patient and work with your physician to find a dosage, medication and schedule that is most suitable for you. This chart will help you remember a few of the names of popular 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.