ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants boost the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine, which are used to treat ADHD symptoms. They are available as immediate-release (short acting) and extended release tablets, liquids and patches.
Stimulants include dextroamphetamine, dextro and Adderall. Lisdexamfetamine is a different one and is available in a four-hour tablet or an extended-release capsule.
Stimulants
The most popular treatment for ADHD is stimulants. adhd treatment medication work well for 70 to 80% adults and children. These drugs boost the levels of hormones such as dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which helps you focus your mind, pay attention and control your impulses. Most stimulants are effective within 30 minutes. adhd medication ritalin can decrease the amount of interruptions and fidgeting. They can also help you focus, finish tasks, and improve your relationships. But they will not eliminate all your symptoms or stop you from suffering from side effects.
Stimulant drugs are available in short- and long-acting doses. Short-acting medications peak after several hours and require 2-3 daily doses, while long-acting drugs can be taken just once a day. Some people have a "crash" when the effects of the drug wear off, causing an abrupt decrease in energy and mood or intense hunger. If you have this experience the doctor could prescribe an intermediate stimulant to bridge the gap between doses or change you to a longer-acting 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 prescription and over-the-counter forms however, when they are taken or smoked, they enter the brain quickly to produce a rush of energy and an euphoria. Students, athletes, truckers and soldiers have used these substances. In 2017, about two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines to get high.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines in the sense that it blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine, and dopamine from the brain. It is available in oral tablets that are immediate-release, controlled release or extended-release. They can be taken either once or twice every day. It's also available under the brand name Focalin.
Atomoxetine is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, boosts the noradrenaline levels in your brain. It is available as a capsule or tablet that can be consumed once or twice a day. Atomoxetine is approved for use by adults and adolescents who are over 5 years old.
adhd medication ritalin for ADHD
Some people have found that stimulants aren't effective or cause adverse side effects their doctor might look at other options for ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) can aid in improving your ability concentrate, stay on task and control your emotions. They include Strattera, Tenex (which will be removed in 2023), Kapvay, and Intuniv.
Finding the right ADHD medication may take some time whether it's for you or your child. Talk to your doctor and be patient to find the right medication, dosage, and schedule for you. This chart will help you remember a few 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 adverse effects, dosages and formulations.