ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants relieve symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. They are available as immediate-release (short acting) and extended release tablets, liquids, and patches.
Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) and dextroamphetamine and dextro-amphetamine (Adderall) are examples of stimulants. Lisdexamfetamine is another and is available in a four-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
The most common medicine for ADHD is stimulants. They work well for 70 to 80% adults and children. These drugs increase hormones, such as dopamine and norepinephrine levels inside the brain, which helps you to think clearly, pay greater attention and control impulses. Most stimulants have a 30-minute effect. adhd medication online can help reduce the amount of interruptions and fidgeting. They can also assist you in focusing, finishing tasks and improve your relationships. However, they won't remove all symptoms or prevent you from experiencing side effects.
Stimulant medications come in both long and short-acting doses. Short-acting stimulants peak after a few hours and require between 2 and 3 daily doses. Long-acting stimulants should be taken daily. Some people experience a "crash" when the drug wears off, which can cause a sudden decrease in energy and mood or intense hunger. If this happens the doctor will prescribe an intermediate stimulant or change you to a longer-acting drug.
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 however, when they are inhaled or smoked, they enter the brain quickly, causing an increase in energy and euphoria. They've been used by athletes, students truck drivers, soldiers and students. In 2017, two percent of Canadian students reported abusing amphetamines for non-medical purposes.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines in the sense that it blocks the reuptake norepinephrine, and dopamine from the brain. It is available in immediate-release, extended-release and controlled-release oral tablets that are taken at least twice a day. Focalin is also the brand name under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine, an FDA-approved ADHD medication, increases the noradrenaline levels in your brain. It is available as a capsule or tablet that can be consumed once or twice daily. Atomoxetine is approved for use in adults and adolescents over the age of 5.
Other Medications for ADHD
Some people discover that stimulants do not work or cause unpleasant adverse effects. Their doctor may then consider other drugs to treat ADHD. Nonstimulants, or a mixture of stimulants and nonstimulants, can help you remain focused on your task and control emotions. They include Strattera, Tenex (which will be removed in 2023), Kapvay, and Intuniv.
It can take time to determine the best ADHD medication for your child or yourself. Consult with your doctor and take your time to determine the best medication, dosage and schedule for you. This chart will help you remember some of the names used by popular ADHD medication. These include stimulants like Adderall and Vyvanse and nonstimulants like Strattera. Click on the name of each medication to find out more about its effects, dosages, and formulations.