ADHD Medication List - Stimulants
Stimulants increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine two brain chemicals. They include methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta, Focalin) and amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse).
Doctors may also prescribe the older class of antidepressants known as tricyclics to treat ADHD. These medications can cause serious side effects. Doctors typically only prescribe them if stimulants fail to work or cause intolerable symptoms.
Stimulants
Stimulants are among the most commonly used medications to treat ADHD in adults and children. They are effective by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine that are present in your brain. This helps improve concentration, reduces fatigue and reduces hyperactivity and impulsivity in most people who take these drugs. The stimulants can help 70% to 80% of people suffering from ADHD improve. They don't cause addiction in the doses used to treat ADHD however, they could be a source for addiction and abuse. If you have a history of addiction to drugs or alcohol, or who are part of an extended family with substance abuse or mental health issues may be more at risk.
The most commonly used stimulants to treat ADHD are methylphenidates and amphetamines. Generics are cheaper than brand-name medications and are preferred by most insurance companies. Certain of these medicines are available as extended-release tablets that you can take one time every week and last for up to 16 hrs. This can result in fewer "ups and downs" of symptoms, which is particularly beneficial for children in school.
The stimulants that are immediate-release (short acting) begin working within 30 to 45 minutes. They last about four hours. You can take them twice or three times a day. They are usually the first medication that your doctor prescribes. Certain of them are available as chewable tablets, liquid or a patch to be placed on the skin.
Intermediate and long-acting stimulants can last for as long as 16 hours and are consumed every day in the morning. They can prevent the peaks in effectiveness that may occur when short-acting stimulants wear off which can result in extreme hunger and a lack of energy. Many people who use long-acting stimulants will supplement them with a small amount immediate-release medications in the afternoon and evening.
There are a variety of possible side effects of taking stimulants to treat ADHD such as anxiety, stomachaches, headaches as well as loss of appetite and sleepiness. The majority of these side effects are mild to moderate and go away after several weeks as your body adjusts. Talk to your doctor if the side effects are extreme or persist after a few weeks.
Non-stimulants
These are also known as non-stimulant ADHD medications. They include atomoxetine (Strattera), varenicline (Adderall XR) and bupropion. These medications are known as non-stimulant ADHD medications and include atomoxetine, varenicline and bupropion. These medications are less likely to be misused than stimulants but may still cause agitation, insomnia, or anxiety.
Talk to adhd anxiety medication about how you assess the potential risks and benefits of each medication alternative. Your doctor will consider your medical history, your symptoms and any other illnesses or conditions you might have. They will also look at the effects each medication has on your child or you, and how it works with other treatments. You will need to inform your doctor of any supplements, foods, or drinks that you or your child consume in addition to any prescription or over-the counter medication you're taking, including antidepressants.