ADHD Medication Names
Stimulants relieve symptoms of ADHD by increasing the levels of brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. adhd medication uk for adults are available in 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 comes as a four-hour capsule or tablet.
Stimulants
Stimulants for ADHD are the most commonly used medicines and are effective in 70 to 80 percent of children and adults. These medications increase hormones, such as dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the brain, allowing you to think clearly, pay more attention and control impulses. adhd medication uk for adults take effect within 30 minutes. They can reduce interruptions, fidgeting, and finish tasks and improve your relationships. They won't stop you from suffering symptoms or side effects.
Stimulant medicines are available in both short- and long-acting dosages. Short-acting drugs peak after a few hours and require three daily doses, while long-acting drugs can be taken just every day. Some sufferers have the sensation of a "crash" or a sudden drop of energy, mood or hunger as the drug wears away. If you've experienced this your doctor might prescribe an intermediate stimulant to bridge the gap between doses or 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. Both prescription and over-the-counter versions are available, but when they are smoked or injected they rapidly reach the brain and cause an adrenaline rush. They've been misused by athletes, students truck drivers, soldiers, and other athletes. In 2017, two percent of Canadian students reported using amphetamines for recreational purposes.
Methylphenidate is similar to amphetamines in the sense that it blocks the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine from the brain. It is available as oral tablets with immediate-release, controlled-release or extended-release. These can be taken once or twice every day. Focalin is also the brand name under which it's sold.
Atomoxetine which is an FDA-approved ADHD medication, boosts the noradrenaline levels of your brain. It is available as tablets or capsules that are taken once or twice daily. Atomoxetine is suitable for adults and adolescents older than 5 years old.
Other medications for ADHD
Some people discover that stimulants don't work or cause undesirable side effects, so their doctor may try other medications for ADHD. Nonstimulants (or a combination of stimulant and nonstimulant) may aid in improving your ability to concentrate, stay on task and control your emotions. These include Strattera (discontinued in 2023), Tenex, Kapvay and Intuniv.
Finding the right ADHD medication can take some time, whether it is for you or your child. Be patient and work with your doctor to determine the medication, dosage and schedule that is most suitable for you. This chart will help you remember a few of the names used by popular ADHD medications. These include stimulants such as Adderall and Vyvanse and non-stimulants such as Strattera. Click on any medicine to get an in-depth breakdown of its side effects, dosages, formulations and additional factors to consider.